Mode

Novel MoA anti-angiogenic

Modality

Peptide

Descriptor

Subcutaneous formulation with multiple modes of action.

Context

Anti-angiogenic agents, and in particular those targeting the VEGF/VEGFR2 axis, have proven clinically effective for treating a number of different types of cancer. However, incomplete responses and/or resistance to these therapies have highlighted the need for new agents targeting alternative pathways.

FKBPL shares homology with the FK506-binding protein family and was found to be a potent anti-angiogenic protein in a number of ex vivo assays and in vivo models. In addition, FKBPL may have prognostic and predictive value for cancer therapy. FKBPL appears to target the CD44 pathway and hence has effects upstream of the anti-angiogenic growth factor based therapeutics suggesting an FKBPL mimic could be used in combination and monotherapy modalities.

Status

ALM201 is a first-in-class peptide that is based on the natural protein FKBPL and that inhibits angiogenesis and other cancer related pathways.

This peptide has extremely potent anti-angiogenic activity, inhibiting migration, tubule formation and microvessel formation in vitro and in vivo, and is very effective in mouse xenograft models at low doses yet does not affect proliferation.

ALM201 also targets cancer stem cells. Studies have showen that the molecule inhibits tumoursphere forming efficiency in a number of cancer cell-lines and targets breast cancer cells both in vitro and in vivo.

Partnering

ALM201 is currently undergoing a Phase I trial with an expansion cohort in an ovarian biomarker selected subgroup with sensitivity to anti-angiogenic therapy.

For all enquiries related to the ALM 201 Clinical study including worldwide rights please contact – martin.wiles@almacgroup.com