DI-TSPa

DI-TSPa is a D-isoleucyl enantiomer of a thrombospondin-1 (TSP-1) heptapeptide, and a more soluble isomer of DI-TSP. It functions as an antiangiogenic peptide mimetic, inhibiting tumor growth by inducing apoptosis in endothelial cells. This action is mediated through its binding to CD36, an antiangiogenic receptor expressed on the surface of endothelial cells, which disrupts the vasculature essential for tumor proliferation. Developed in part by researchers from Abbott Laboratories, DI-TSPa has demonstrated its ability to block the progression of primary human bladder tumors in orthotopic mouse models, showing promise as a lead compound in antiangiogenic strategies.