Application

Compound that blocks tumor angiogenesis and growth by inhibiting VEGF and TF production.

Key Benefits

• Useful in treating any conditions benefiting from angiogenesis inhibition, such as cancer or chronic inflammation.
• Blocks tumor angiogenesis and growth without exhibiting a high level of toxicity to normal vascular endothelial cells.

Market Summary

Evidence suggests that tissue factor (TF), an integral membrane receptor protein, participates in the regulation of vascular permeability factor (VEGF) synthesis, and hence, tumor angiogenesis in cancer. There are relatively few compounds that exhibit anti-angiogenetic properties useful in the treatment of cancer. Furthermore, some compounds that block tumor angiogenesis may exhibit a high level of toxicity to normal vascular endothelial cells.

Technical Summary

Curcumin, the aromatic yellow pigment in curry, turmeric, and mustard, is known to have anti-angiogenic, anti-tumor, and anti-tumor promoting properties. Curcumin additionally exhibits numerous therapeutic effects, including anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-cholesterol, and anti-diabetic properties. Emory researchers have identified a group of curcumin analogs that block tumor angiogenesis and growth by inhibiting VEGF and TF production in the tumor microenvironment. Importantly, expression in both cancer cells and the vascular endothelial cells are affected without exhibiting high levels of toxicity to normal vascular endothelial cells. These compounds have potential in treating conditions benefiting from angiogenesis inhibition, including cancer, chronic inflammation, and other diseases that are caused by aberrant growth of the blood vessels.

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