Carotuximab

TRC105 is a first-in-class human chimeric monoclonal antibody that inhibits tumor growth by binding to CD105 (endoglin), a receptor over-expressed on proliferating endothelium that is required for angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels). TRC105 has shown activity, as monotherapy or when combined with chemotherapy, in pre-clinical studies of breast and colorectal cancer. Pre-clinical data also indicate CD105 expression is increased following treatment of human cancer with anti-VEGF therapy. The target of TRC105 shares many features with the VEGF receptor. Most importantly, both the VEGF and CD105 receptors are essential for angiogenesis, in that deletion of either receptor prevents blood vessel formation in utero. [Traecon Pharmaceuticals Press Release]