Dalantercept

The TGF-b superfamily receptor activin receptor-like kinase 1 (ALK-1) has essential roles in regulating angiogenesis during development and homeostasis, as well as pathophysiological tumor angiogenesis. Dalantercept is a soluble chimeric protein composed of the ALK-1 extracellular domain fused to the human Fc domain. Dalantercept acts as a ligand trap to prevent the activation of endogenous ALK-1 by bone morphogenetic proteins 9/10. In preclinical models, dalantercept inhibits tumor growth and enhances the efficacy of cytotoxic chemotherapy. In early clinical development, dalantercept as a single agent has had a promising disease control rate. Dalantercept has a favorable safety profile, with fluid retention and edema being the most common side effects. Current studies are investigating the role of dalantercept with cytotoxic chemotherapy and other targeted therapies.