Using the complex model system chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), researchers observed that topical application or intravenous injection of TM601 inhibited angiogenesis (new blood vessel growth), which was stimulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor, or lipopolysaccharide. Additionally, treatment of various human tumor cell lines grown on the surface of the CAM with TM601 decreased tumor growth and intratumoral hemoglobin levels.
These data suggest that the compound’s anti-angiogenic effect reduces tumor growth via inhibition of new blood vessel formation which is required to support rapid tumor proliferation.
Michael Egan, president and CEO of TransMolecular, said: “The potential that TM601 may be synergistic with VEGF targeting drugs may encourage partnering opportunities surrounding this candidate. And because the peptide alone has demonstrated anti-tumor activity, we will be initiating a Phase I trial with non-radiolabeled TM601 in malignant glioma.”