A new human VEGF-A isoform (VEGF111) has been cloned. Recombinant VEGF111 retains full biological activity and is resistant to degradation by plasmin and wound fluid exsudates collected from chronic ulcers. In nude mice, expression of VEGF111 induces a dense network of functional capillaries (Mineur et al., J Cell Bio 2007; 179(6):1261-1273).

In the past, the use of VEGF for the treatment of burns and wounds has been investigated. Wounds are rich in proteolytic enzymes, such as plasmin and matrix metalloproteinases, able to degrade classical VEGF isoforms. Proteolytic degradation of VEGF in chronic wounds is regarded as one of the reasons of unsatisfactory amelioration of healing.  VEGF111 should allow overcoming these limitations, due to both its high resistance to proteolysis and its capability of inducing angiogenesis.

Applications in dermatology, for the treatment of:

-    Chronic wounds such as venous, pressure and diabetic ulcers
-    Severe burns and wounds

Entry into EP, US, JP after International Phase WO2007/083246A2

Research collaboration and/or license agreement