phVEGF-2

**phVEGF-2** (also known as **HGS-VEGF-2**) is a plasmid DNA gene therapy encoding the human Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor-C (VEGF-C), which was historically designated as VEGF-2 by its developer, Human Genome Sciences. Developed in collaboration with Vascular Genetics Inc., the therapy was designed to treat ischemic cardiovascular diseases, including peripheral arterial disease (PAD) and coronary artery disease (CAD). The mechanism of action involves the local expression of the VEGF-C protein, which acts as a ligand for the tyrosine kinase receptors VEGFR-2 and VEGFR-3. Activation of these receptors promotes angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels) and lymphangiogenesis, theoretically improving blood flow to ischemic tissues. Despite promising results in early-stage trials for critical limb ischemia and myocardial ischemia, phVEGF-2 failed to meet primary endpoints in larger Phase 2 clinical studies, leading to the discontinuation of its development for cardiovascular indications.

Other names

VEGF-2 gene therapyVEGF2 gene therapyVEGF 2 gene therapyVEGF-C gene therapyplasmid human vascular endothelial growth factor-2