Replies to post #1424 on Biotech Values

[DewDiligence]

Re: VEGF-Trap vs Squalamine:

besharp2c: Thanks for the bad-link alert; link truncation is a long-standing iHub problem. To see Mark Z’s MOA posts, use these two links instead:

http://tinyurl.com/27fqx
http://tinyurl.com/2kn32

As you can see, Mark makes a strong case for the superiority of Squalamine to VEGF inhibitors as a class, and REGN’s VEGF-Trap is a VEGF inhibitor.

>> Which brings me to the question: Is GENR's MOA uniquely suited to systemic administration because of the uptake mechanism, or does REGN's VEGF-Trap share the same or similarly-satisfactory MOA? <<

Squalamine is well-suited for systemic administration in AMD because: 1) It is a small molecule capable of passing through the blood-retinal barrier; and 2) It has a short systemic half-life.

Aventis evidently thinks that VEGF-Trap shares these characteristics, but this will have to be proven in the clinic.

Regarding your question about the IND for VEGF-Trap: I think we can assume from today’s PR that the IND has already been accepted by the FDA.

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P.S. I had planned to update the “Read Me First” packet in about a week but, due to the truncated link you found, I will do it ASAP.