Telik has identified a class of selective small molecule inhibitors of aurora kinase A and B and VEGFR2. Treatment of human colorectal cancer cells with two of these inhibitors, A60 and EA19, prevented cell division, ultimately leading to cancer cell apoptosis (programmed cell death). These agents inhibited tumor growth in a standard xenograft model of human colorectal cancer.
The VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2/KDR/Flt-1), a clinically validated target, plays a pivotal role in controlling angiogenesis and metastasis.
James Keck, vice president, biology research, said: “These data support the continued development of aurora kinase and VEGFR2 inhibitors. We are actively pursuing studies which, if successful, could support the filing of an investigational new drug application.”