Identification of inhibitors for vascular endothelial growth factor receptor by using dynamic combinatorial chemistry

The novel analysis method consisting of size-exclusion chromatography (SEC) and HRMS analysis was firstly applied in the discovery of potential inhibitors towards cancer drug targets. With vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR-2) as a target, dynamic combinatorial libraries (DCLs) were prepared by reacting aldehydes with amines. Four sensitive binders targeted VEGFR-2 were directly isolated from the library. Antitumor activity test in vitro and inhibition experiments toward angiogenesis were also carried out.

Update on implications and mechanisms of angiogenesis in liver fibrosis

Liver fibrosis occurs as a compensatory response to the process of tissue repair in a wide range of chronic liver injures. It is characterized by excessive deposition of extracellular matrix in liver tissues. As the pathogenesis progresses without effective management, it will lead to formation of liver fiber nodules and disruption of normal liver structure and function, finally culminating in cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. A new discovery shows that liver angiogenesis is strictly associated with, and may even favor fibrogenic progression of chronic liver diseases. Recent basic and clinical investigations also demonstrate that liver fibrogenesis is accompanied by pathological angiogenesis and sinusoidal remodeling, which critically determine the pathogenesis and prognosis of liver fibrosis. Inhibition of pathological angiogenesis is considered to be a new strategy for the treatment of liver fibrosis. This review summarizes current knowledge on the process of angiogenesis, the relationships between angiogenesis and liver fibrosis, and on the molecular mechanisms of liver angiogenesis. On the other hand, it also presents the different strategies that have been used in experimental models to counteract excessive angiogenesis and the role of angiogenesis in the prevention and treatment of liver fibrosis.