NCIt definition : A designed ankyrin repeat proteins (DARPin)-based agent targeting vascular endothelial
growth factor (VEGF) and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF), with potential antiangiogenic
and antineoplastic activities. Compared to antibodies, DARPins are small in size,
have favorable pharmacokinetics and allow for both high affinity binding and efficacy.
Upon administration, the VEGF/HGF-targeting DARPin MP0250 binds to and inhibits both
HGF and VEGF. This prevents HGF- and VEGF-mediated signaling, and inhibits the growth
of HGF/VEGF-overexpressing tumor cells. This agent also prevents osteolysis, due to
the inhibitory effect on HGF signaling. HGF and VEGF are overexpressed in a variety
of cancer cell types and are associated with increased cell proliferation, migration
and adhesion.;