VEGF-Kinoid
Neovacs has shown the immunogenicity and efficacy of VEGF-Kinoid in animal models of both AMD and solid tumors
Antibodies and antibody fragments that bind VEGF and thus inhibit neo-angiogenesis are marketed for both oncology and ophthalmology (age-related macular degeneration) indications. Neovacs has generated preclinical data in both indications.
In cancer, one study showed similar or better efficacy compared to Avastin in animal models of rhabdomyosarcoma. VEGF Kinoid showed superior efficacy in inhibiting tumor growth over time since an escape of tumor growth inhibition occurred in the Avastin treated group. (Haghiri F.R. et al., PNAS, 2007, 104 (8), 2837-2842)
In a murine model of macular degeneration, animals immunized intramuscularly with VEGF Kinoid showed a significant reduction in ocular lesions, as compared to the control animals, supporting further investigation in age-related macular degeneration. These data were presented at the 2009 European Vision and Eye Research Conference in September 2009.
VEGF Kinoid is in pre-clinical development; for strategic reasons, Neovacs currently has no plans to move it into human clinical testing for the time being.
