Vegfr2 (** - Bevacizumab (Avastin) - Sorafenib (Nexavar) - Sunitinib (Sutent) - Pazopanib (Votrient) - Regorafenib (Stivarga) - Cabozantinib (Cometriq, Cabometyx) **)
Other Medications
Description
Vegfr2 is not a drug itself, but rather a protein (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor 2) that plays a crucial role in the growth of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis. Tumors need blood vessels to grow and spread. Several drugs currently used in cancer treatment target Vegfr2 to stop angiogenesis and starve the tumor. These drugs include bevacizumab, sorafenib, sunitinib, pazopanib, regorafenib, and cabozantinib.
Based on the provided clinical trial data (NCT00677612), researchers at Tokyo University are studying a different approach involving peptides derived from Vegfr1 and Vegfr2. This trial is a Phase 1 study evaluating a vaccine using these peptides, mixed with Montanide ISA 51, given subcutaneously twice a week for 8 weeks along with chemotherapy (Tegafur/Uracil/Folinate). The goal is to see if this vaccine can stimulate the body's immune system (specifically cytotoxic T lymphocytes or CTLs) to target colorectal cancer cells. The trial focuses on safety and tolerability in Phase 1, with plans to assess immune and clinical responses in Phase 2. This approach aims to harness the immune system to fight cancer, rather than directly blocking Vegfr2 with a drug.
Mechanism of Action
The clinical trial (NCT00677612) is investigating a peptide vaccine approach. It uses peptides derived from Vegfr1 and Vegfr2. The hypothesis is that these peptides can stimulate the immune system, specifically cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), to recognize and attack cancer cells. The vaccine is administered with an adjuvant (Montanide ISA 51) to enhance the immune response. The trial is evaluating the safety and immunological/clinical effects of this vaccine in patients with colorectal cancer, given alongside chemotherapy.
Side Effects
Not all side effects are listed. Side effects vary by individual. Always consult your oncologist.