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In vitro and in ovo experimental study of two anti-VEGF agents used in ophthalmology
Mădălina Casiana Palfi1, Ovidiu Muşat, Edward Paul Şeclăman
1Department of Ophthalmology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; ramona.barac@live.com; sanzinici@yahoo.com.
Abstract:
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) monoclonal antibodies can inhibit neovascularization and also to block the growth of several tumor cell lines. Treatment with anti-VEGF drugs like Bevacizumab (Avastin®) and Aflibercept has proven optimistic results in various malignant diseases. The present study was aimed to investigate Bevacizumab and Aflibercept in vitro effects on two human melanoma cell lines (A375 and SK-Mel-28), as well as on a healthy cell line (HaCaT human keratinocytes), followed by characterization of the in ovo effects on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Our data indicated that Bevacizumab and Aflibercept decreased human melanoma cells viability in a dose-dependent way, a more significant effect was obtained for Aflibercept. Regarding the safety profile of the active compounds tested, they showed a low-moderate irritation score. In the case of the tested samples, the vascular capillaries were not majorly affected. In both cases, the only notable change was the appearance of a slight vascular coagulation. The viability of the embryos after application was good, they survived more than 24 hours after testing the compounds on the CAM.
Insights
Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) monoclonal antibodies, Bevacizumab and Aflibercept, reduced melanoma cell viability. Both drugs demonstrated a good safety profile in vitro and in ovo, with minimal effects on vascular health.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) monoclonal antibodies inhibit neovascularization and tumor cell growth.
- Bevacizumab and Aflibercept show promise in treating malignant diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro effects of Bevacizumab and Aflibercept on human melanoma cell lines (A375, SK-Mel-28) and healthy keratinocytes (HaCaT).
- To characterize the in ovo effects of these anti-VEGF drugs on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM).
Main Methods:
- In vitro assessment of cell viability for melanoma and keratinocyte cell lines upon treatment with Bevacizumab and Aflibercept.
- In ovo evaluation of drug effects on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) of chick embryos, including irritation and vascular response.
- Assessment of embryo viability post-treatment.
Main Results:
- Both Bevacizumab and Aflibercept decreased human melanoma cell viability in a dose-dependent manner, with Aflibercept showing a more significant effect.
- The tested compounds exhibited a low-to-moderate irritation score on the CAM.
- Minimal impact on vascular capillaries was observed, with only slight vascular coagulation noted. Embryo viability remained good (>24 hours).
Conclusions:
- Bevacizumab and Aflibercept effectively reduce melanoma cell viability in vitro.
- These anti-VEGF agents possess a favorable safety profile, demonstrating low toxicity to healthy cells and minimal adverse effects on vascular structures in ovo.
