In vitro and in ovo experimental study of two anti-VEGF agents used in ophthalmology.

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) monoclonal antibodies can inhibit neovascularization and also to block the growth of several tumor cell lines. Treatment with anti-VEGF drugs like Bevacizumab (Avastin®) and Aflibercept has proven optimistic results in various malignant diseases. The present study was aimed to investigate Bevacizumab and Aflibercept in vitro effects on two human melanoma cell lines (A375 and SK-Mel-28), as well as on a healthy cell line (HaCaT human keratinocytes), followed by characterization of the in ovo effects on the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM). Our data indicated that Bevacizumab and Aflibercept decreased human melanoma cells viability in a dose-dependent way, a more significant effect was obtained for Aflibercept. Regarding the safety profile of the active compounds tested, they showed a low-moderate irritation score. In the case of the tested samples, the vascular capillaries were not majorly affected. In both cases, the only notable change was the appearance of a slight vascular coagulation. The viability of the embryos after application was good, they survived more than 24 hours after testing the compounds on the CAM.