EntreMed Presents Preclinical Data for Novel PAR-2 Antagonist

EntreMed has presented preclinical data for its Proteinase Activated Receptor (PAR-2) Inhibitor program.

PAR-2 is a cell surface receptor that is known to play a critical role in mediating acute and chronic inflammation.

EntreMed has developed multiple peptides and small molecules that block PAR-2 activity, the first such compounds identified as PAR-2 antagonists. As part of a program to develop drug candidates for uses in oncology and other diseases, EntreMed has synthesized additional small molecule antagonists of PAR-2 that have demonstrated increased inhibitory activity in vitro compared to initial compounds.

Data from the company's preclinical studies indicate that its PAR-2 antagonists inhibit tumor growth and the formation of new blood vessels in animal models. PAR-2 antagonists also demonstrated inhibition of inflammation in preclinical rheumatoid arthritis and acute inflammation models. Antagonists of PAR-2 signaling demonstrate a potential relationship between the onset of inflammation and the regulation of tumor growth and angiogenesis.