Aflibercept is a recombinant fusion protein that functions as a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor. It is composed of the binding domains of two human VEGF receptors fused with the Fc region of human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1). This molecular structure enables aflibercept to act as a decoy receptor with high binding affinity to VEGF-A, effectively blocking its interaction with native VEGF receptors on endothelial cells. Clinically, aflibercept is used primarily as an ophthalmic agent in the treatment of neovascular (wet) age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and macular edema following central retinal vein occlusion (CRVO).
Compared to other anti-VEGF agents such as bevacizumab and ranibizumab, aflibercept demonstrates a stronger affinity for VEGF-A, potentially enhancing its therapeutic efficacy in ocular and vascular conditions. In clinical research settings, therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of aflibercept is increasingly utilized to optimize individualized dosing regimens by measuring drug concentrations at designated intervals. This monitoring helps ensure efficacy, minimize toxicity, and detect issues such as drug noncompliance or immunogenicity-related loss of efficacy.
As a biologic medicinal product, aflibercept belongs to a class of complex therapeutic proteins produced using recombinant DNA technology in genetically engineered cell lines. The complexity of its production makes the development of biosimilars challenging, as even small variations in manufacturing processes can alter the drug’s immunogenicity and clinical profile. Immune responses to aflibercept, including the formation of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs), may influence its pharmacokinetics and clinical outcomes, making careful monitoring essential in both research and real-world clinical applications.
This product is manufactured in Turkey by Matriks Biotek.