Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 23, 2026
Trophoblast Cell Recovery from Angiogenesis-Tube Formation Assay for Differentiation Marker Expression Analysis
Published on: November 8, 2024
Inhibition of placenta growth factor with TB-403: a novel antiangiogenic cancer therapy
Dorte Lisbet Nielsen1, Lisa Sengeløv
1Department of Oncology, University of Copenhagen, Herlev Hospital, Herlev Ringvej 75, DK-2730 Herlev, Denmark. dornie01@heh.regionh.dk
Introduction:
There is clinical evidence that therapies targeting the vascular endothelial growth factor pathway are effective in delaying cancer progression. However, tumors may be either intrinsically resistant or evolve resistance to such therapies. Hence, there is a need for new therapies targeting angiogenesis.
Areas Covered:
The data are obtained by searching in the PubMed database. The search terms used included antiangiogenic therapy, TB-403 (RO5323441), placenta growth factor (PlGF) and VEGFR-1 (Flt-1). We review preclinical data concerning the function and inhibition of PlGF and summarize data on expression of PlGF in cancer patients. Data from early-phase clinical trials of TB-403 (RO5323441), a monoclonal antibody inhibiting PlGF, are discussed. Future development strategies, therapeutic potentials and limitations of TB-403 are further evaluated.
Expert Opinion:
There are some conflicting data on the function of PlGF and the importance of its role in primary tumor growth. Data from some preclinical models of PlGF inhibition and early-phase clinical trials with TB-403 are, however, promising, although the true potential of the drug is yet to be determined. Further clinical development should be preceded by molecular studies in the context of well-designed preclinical models and/or small translational studies. Future challenges involve identifying predictive biomarkers.
Insights
New anti-angiogenic therapies targeting placenta growth factor (PlGF) show promise for cancer treatment. TB-403, an antibody inhibiting PlGF, demonstrates potential, but further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and identify predictive biomarkers.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Angiogenesis Inhibition
- Molecular Targeted Therapy
Background:
- Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) pathway inhibitors are clinically effective in delaying cancer progression.
- Tumor resistance to VEGF-targeted therapies necessitates novel anti-angiogenic strategies.
- Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is crucial for tumor growth and metastasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review preclinical data on placenta growth factor (PlGF) function and inhibition.
- To summarize PlGF expression in cancer patients.
- To evaluate early-phase clinical trial data for TB-403 (RO5323441), a PlGF-inhibiting monoclonal antibody.
Main Methods:
- Literature search of the PubMed database using keywords: antiangiogenic therapy, TB-403, placenta growth factor (PlGF), and VEGFR-1 (Flt-1).
- Review of preclinical studies on PlGF.
- Analysis of data from early-phase clinical trials involving TB-403.
Main Results:
- Conflicting data exist regarding PlGF's role in primary tumor growth.
- Preclinical models of PlGF inhibition show promising results.
- Early-phase clinical trials of TB-403 suggest therapeutic potential.
Conclusions:
- TB-403, a PlGF inhibitor, shows promise but requires further investigation.
- Additional molecular studies and translational research are needed before widespread clinical development.
- Identifying predictive biomarkers is crucial for future therapeutic strategies.
