ATC Group: L01EK Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR) tyrosine kinase inhibitors

Axitinib is a potent and selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor receptors (VEGFR)-1, VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3. These receptors are implicated in pathologic angiogenesis, tumour growth, and metastatic progression of cancer. Axitinib has been shown to potently inhibit VEGF-mediated endothelial cell proliferation and survival.

Fruquintinib is a selective tyrosine kinase inhibitor of VEGFR-1, -2, and -3 with antitumor effects resulting from suppression of tumour angiogenesis.

Tivozanib potently and selectively blocks all 3 Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor receptors (VEGFR) and has been shown to block various VEGF-induced biochemical and biologic responses in vitro. By blocking VEGF-induced VEGFR activation, tivozanib inhibits angiogenesis and vascular permeability in tumour tissues, leading to inhibition of tumour growth in vivo.