Dermaseptine B2 : a new molecule against tumoral growth and angiogenesis – DERMATHER

For the last 15 years, the role of tumor angiogenesis in growth and dissemination of tumors has been increasingly studied. It is now considered indisputable that angiogenesis is a crucial mechanism mediated numerous factors, leading to the formation of new blood vessels. Therefore, inhibiting this dynamic process or the biological activity of angiogenic factors should stop tumour progression and possibly induce their regression. Among new therapies developed to improve the management of cancer, in addition to the use of cytotoxic reagent, molecules targeting the angiogenesis are promising molecules. In this context this program aims to explore the combined action of antitumoral and antiangiogenic effects of Dermaseptin B2 (Drs B2), a peptide purified from the skin secretions of an Amazonian frog. This peptide targets both tumor and activated endothelial cells leading to a direct blockage of the tumor growth as well as angiogenesis, without effect on the non-tumoral cells. From this duality of effect, in several in vitro and in vivo experimental models, this molecule induces an inhibition of the tumoral growth and even in certain cases the complete eradication of the tumor. The whole properties of DersB2 were patented by CNRS in July 2009.
The aim for this project is to complete our studies relating to the research of a minimal bioactive structure, to elucidate the mechanism of action and to determine clinical biomarkers that could be up or down regulated in the most sensitive types of tumor under Drs B2 treatment. This project could help AnyGenes to move through a full pharmaceutical development up to and including a formal Phase I/ Phase IIa clinical trial to demonstrate the ability of Drs B2 or an analog peptide to treat cancer patients.