Anti-FGF1 Antibody Prodrug, Protease Activated (1C9)

The Anti-FGF1 Antibody Prodrug, Protease Activated (1C9) is an antibody prodrug comprised of a recombinant mouse antibody targeting human FGF1, linked to a masking peptide that conceals the active antigen-binding site via a protease-cleavable linker. The mask peptide is recombinantly attached to the amino terminus of either the light or heavy chain of the antibody, designed to block access to the antigen-binding site and physically prevent the antibody from binding to FGF1 protein. Once the masking peptide is cleaved by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), the prodrug is activated, allowing the unmasked monoclonal antibody component to bind to FGF1 effectively. FGF1, also known as Acidic Fibroblast Growth Factor (aFGF), is a powerful secreted growth factor that plays a significant role in tumor angiogenesis (blood vessel formation) and tumor cell survival. Its high expression by tumor and stromal cells binds to and activates FGFR receptors, driving the proliferation of both endothelial and malignant cells. This contribution to vascular growth and tumor growth makes FGF1 a key component in sustaining the tumor's aggressive phenotype.