VEGFtrap

VEGF trap is a therapeutic fusion protein designed to inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling by acting as a decoy receptor. It combines the VEGF-binding domains of VEGF receptor 1 (VEGFR-1) and VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR-2) with the Fc portion of immunoglobulin G1, creating a soluble molecule that sequesters VEGF ligands. The resulting entity binds VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and placental growth factor (PlGF) with high affinity, preventing these ligands from activating endogenous VEGF receptors on endothelial cells and thereby reducing angiogenesis.

In clinical use, the most widely known VEGF trap is aflibercept. In ophthalmology, it is marketed as Eylea and is administered by intravitreal injection to treat neovascular age-related macular degeneration, diabetic macular edema, and other retinal diseases driven by VEGF. In oncology, aflibercept is marketed as Zaltrap for metastatic colorectal cancer, given intravenously in combination with chemotherapy. The VEGF trap concept provides an alternative to monoclonal antibodies by acting as a decoy receptor, sometimes offering different pharmacokinetics and tissue distribution.

Development and mechanism notes indicate that aflibercept was created by Regeneron Pharmaceuticals and Sanofi. By intercepting VEGF ligands, VEGF traps aim to halt pathological angiogenesis while potentially avoiding some receptor-mediated mechanisms. Safety profiles vary by indication and route of administration; ocular use can produce conjunctival hemorrhages and intraocular pressure changes, while systemic use can be associated with hypertension, thromboembolic events, and impaired wound healing.