AE-941 (Neovastat): a novel multifunctional antiangiogenic compound

Expert Rev Anticancer Ther. 2001 Oct;1(3):341-7. doi: 10.1586/14737140.1.3.341.

Abstract

AE-941 (Neovastat) is a naturally occurring product extracted from cartilage and has antiangiogenic properties. It has reached Phase III clinical trial evaluation for the treatment of solid tumors (non-small cell lung cancer and renal cell carcinoma) and a pivotal Phase II clinical trial in multiple myeloma is ongoing. AE-941 inhibits several steps of the angiogenesis process, including matrix metalloproteinase activities and VEGF signaling pathways. Moreover, AE-941 induces endothelial cell apoptosis and tissue-type plasminogen activator activity, thus suggesting that it is a multifunctional antiangiogenic drug. Results from Phase I/II clinical trials indicate that AE-941, given orally, is well tolerated. Moreover, the median survival time in patients with renal cell carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer was significantly longer in patients receiving high doses of AE-941 compared to low doses.

MeSH terms

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / adverse effects
  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / blood supply
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Tissue Extracts / adverse effects
  • Tissue Extracts / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Angiogenesis Inhibitors
  • Tissue Extracts
  • shark cartilage extract