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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

A Simple Bioassay for the Evaluation of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors
Published on: March 15, 2016
Biological evaluation of a multi-targeted small molecule inhibitor of tumor-induced angiogenesis
Lee A McDermott1, Brian Higgins, Mary Simcox
1Hoffmann-La Roche Inc., 340 Kingsland Str., Nutley, NJ 07110-1199, USA. lee.mcdermott@roche.com
Abstract:
RO4396686 is a small molecule KDR, FGFR, and PDGFR inhibitor with good pharmacokinetic properties in rodents. In a mouse corneal neovascularization assay, this compound inhibited VEGF-induced angiogenesis. Tested in a H460a xenograft tumor model this agent effected significant tumor growth inhibition at doses as low as 50mg/kg.
Insights
RO4396686, a novel small molecule inhibitor targeting KDR, FGFR, and PDGFR, demonstrated significant anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor effects in preclinical models. This compound effectively inhibited corneal neovascularization and reduced tumor growth in a xenograft model.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
- Angiogenesis Research
Background:
- Small molecule inhibitors are crucial in targeted cancer therapy.
- Kinase inhibitors play a significant role in blocking signaling pathways involved in tumor growth and angiogenesis.
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Fibroblast Growth Factor (FGF) are key regulators of angiogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties of RO4396686 in rodents.
- To assess the anti-angiogenic potential of RO4396686 in a mouse corneal neovascularization assay.
- To determine the efficacy of RO4396686 in inhibiting tumor growth in a xenograft model.
Main Methods:
- RO4396686 was characterized for its pharmacokinetic profile in rodent models.
- Angiogenesis was induced by VEGF in a mouse corneal neovascularization assay to test RO4396686's inhibitory effects.
- Tumor growth inhibition was evaluated using an H460a xenograft model treated with RO4396686.
Main Results:
- RO4396686 exhibited favorable pharmacokinetic properties in rodents.
- The compound demonstrated significant inhibition of VEGF-induced angiogenesis in the corneal assay.
- RO4396686 achieved substantial tumor growth inhibition in the H460a xenograft model at doses of 50mg/kg.
Conclusions:
- RO4396686 is a potent small molecule inhibitor of KDR, FGFR, and PDGFR with promising anti-angiogenic and anti-tumor activities.
- The compound's favorable pharmacokinetics and demonstrated efficacy in preclinical models suggest its potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment.
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