Ranibizumab

Ranibizumab is a second-generation, recombinant humanized IgG1 kappa monoclonal antibody fragment directed against human vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) alpha. Ranibizumab binds to VEGF alpha and inhibits VEGF alpha binding to its receptors, VEGFR1 and VEGFR2, thereby preventing the growth and maintenance of tumor blood vessels. The molecular weight of this agent (48 kD) is much smaller than the molecular weight of bevacizumab (MW ~149 kD), allowing complete penetration of the retina and the subretinal space following intravitreal injection. In contrast to other anti-VEGF aptamers including pegaptanib, ranibizumab has a high specificity and affinity for all soluble human isoforms of VEGF. It is grouped under the following drug class(es): Monoclonal antibodies and VEGF inhibitors. Its therapeutic use is listed as ophthalmic agents. The directory classifies it as a commercial API with a biotechnology source/manufacturing origin. Other names for this substance include Susvimo, ranibizumabum, rhuFab V2 and Lucentis. Its PubChem SID is 481101819.