VEGF Inhibitor Development

Currently, data from in vitro and in vivo preclinical studies, as well as human specimen studies, suggest that angiogenesis plays a crucial role in prostate cancer (PCa). Therefore, the development of inhibitors targeting vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is important for prostate cancer treatment. At Alfa Cytology, we provide a comprehensive one-stop service for the development of VEGF inhibitor for prostate cancer.

Introduction to VEGF Inhibitor

Vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) are part of the platelet-derived growth factor family. Prostate cancer (PCa) relies on angiogenesis for growth, progression and spread of tumor cells to other parts of the body. Currently, there are numerous data suggesting that VEGFs (VEGFA, VEGFB, VEGFC, and VEGFD) and their cognate cell-surface receptors (VEGFR1, VEGFR2, and VEGFR3) play a crucial role in prostate cancer development and progression.

Fig. 1 Schematic diagram of the role of angiogenic growth factors in prostate cancer. (Sarkar, C., et al. 2020)

Mechanism of VEGF Inhibitor

• VEGF is a key factor in promoting tumor angiogenesis, and its expression in the tumor microenvironment is regulated by a variety of factors, including hypoxia levels and elevated androgen levels. Overexpression of VEGF contributes to tumor growth and metastasis, and patients with metastatic prostate cancer (Metastatic PC) have higher levels of VEGF than patients with localized disease.
• VEGF expression is regulated by a variety of transcription factors including HIF-1 (in response to hypoxic conditions), and AR (in response to hormone levels). AR can bind to the promoter region of VEGF and regulate VEGF expression, although the VEGF promoter lacks the typical AR DNA binding site. Studies have shown that targeting both the AR signaling pathway and VEGF (either directly via VEGF inhibitors or indirectly via HIF1-α inhibition) can more effectively inhibit prostate cancer cell growth.

Fig. 2 Targeting both VEGF induction of angiogenesis and androgen synthesis or AR signaling inhibits two critical signaling pathways in prostate cancer (PC) progressionr. (Sarkar, C., et al. 2020)

VEGF Inhibitor Development for Prostate Cancer

Our Services

Most preclinical studies and clinical trials are currently conducted with anti-VEGFA or anti-VEGFR drugs, which have shown modest clinical responses in patients. Therefore, there is a need to develop other novel VEGF inhibitors, which would facilitate more effective and safer treatment of prostate cancer. As a specialist in inhibitor development, Alfa Cytology has a professional team to provide you with 24-hour end-to-end development services to ensure that the entire VEGF inhibitors development process is fast-tracked.

Workflow for VEGF Inhibitor Development

Lead Compound Identification

Identify and optimize small molecules or biologics capable of inhibiting VEGF function or production through high-throughput screening and structure-activity relationship (SAR) studies.

In Vitro Characterization

Evaluate the inhibitory effect on the VEGF signaling pathway and the non-targeting effect on other growth factors and related receptors using cell-based potency assays and selectivity analysis.

In Vivo Efficacy Studies

Evaluate the therapeutic effects of VEGF inhibitors in prostate cancer models and measure the biological effects on tumor growth, angiogenesis, and survival indices.

DMPK/ADME

Assessing the in vitro ADME and in vivo PK of cancer drugs ensures their efficacy and safety in living organisms, offering vital data for optimizing dosage and dosing schedules.

One-stop Solutions for VEGF Inhibitor Development

Alfa Cytology is a company dedicated to the development of prostate cancer therapies. Our company aims to provide customized one-stop VEGF inhibitors development services in the field of prostate cancer therapy. If you are interested in our services, please don't hesitate to contact us for further information and pricing details.