OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) and Phase II dose of endostatin in patients with advanced refractory solid tumors. II. Determine the qualitative and quantitative nature of the toxicities encountered with endostatin in this patient population. III. Evaluate the basic pharmacokinetics and metabolism of endostatin by measurement of plasma levels by EIA and mass spectrometry in this patient population. IV. Investigate the relationship between pharmacokinetic parameters and toxicity in this patient population. V. Evaluate biologic evidence of angiogenesis inhibition in patients receiving endostatin.