CANCERVAX FILES IND FOR ANTI-ANGIOGENIC ANTIBODY D93

CancerVax has filed an investigational new drug (IND) application with the FDA for D93, an investigatory, humanized, monoclonal antibody with a novel anti-angiogenic and tumor inhibitory mechanism of action. Preclinical studies with D93 have demonstrated its ability to reduce angiogenesis and inhibit tumor growth in in vivo models of several types of cancer.

D93 is a humanized, monoclonal antibody that inhibits tumor growth and angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels that feed rapidly growing tumors. Its mechanism of action differs from other angiogenesis inhibitors that are being evaluated in clinical trials or that have been approved by the FDA, such as Avastin (bevacizumab). D93 selectively binds to targets in the extracellular matrix, a molecular network that provides structural support to tissues and regulates cellular processes such as adhesion, migration and cell growth. These targets are exposed during tumor formation, when the collagen comprising the extracellular matrix is denatured or remodeled by tumor cells.