Angiogenesis plays a pivotal role in tumour growth, progression and metastasis of SCLC.10 Preclinical studies have indicated that SCLC can highly express the VEGF receptors (e.g., VEGFR2 and VEGFR3).11,12 Blockade of the interaction between VEGF and VEGFRs can effectively inhibit SCLC growth.13,14 The currently available anti-angiogenic agents include VEGF monoclonal antibodies (e.g., bevacizumab) and small molecule, multitargeted tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), which target the VEGFRs (e.g., sunitinib, sorafenib, vandetanib, etc.). The gene discussed is VEGFA; the disease is small cell lung carcinoma.