Grant: Proof of Principle Program - Phase II

We engineered a recombinant protein that can trap a growth factor (the insulin like growth factor, IGF-I) that is essential for the growth of breast cancer cells. When tested in an animal model of triple negative breast cancer, the IGF-Trap blocked tumor growth and metastasis. In the present application, we propose to further characterize the biological activities of the IGF-Trap, particularly its distribution in different organ sites and its ability to reduce the bioactivity of blood IGF-I in vivo. We also seek to identify which breast cancer subtypes are most sensitive to this candidate drug. Together the data should accelerate commercialization and the transition of the IGF-Trap into the clinic.