CTGF promotes angiogenesis, a process by which new blood vessels are formed that can supply tumors with oxygen and nutrients needed for sustained survival and growth. As part of the SBIR-funded research, FibroGen will screen a library of antibodies for leads that bind to CTGF and inactivate its angiogenic activity. Selected antibody candidates will be tested for their capacity to inhibit tumor growth, potentially providing a novel means to treat cancer.

CTGF works in concert with other growth factors (e.g., VEGF, TGF-beta) to recruit and activate tissue-remodeling cells, including fibroblasts, endothelial cells, and smooth muscle cells, involved in angiogenesis. CTGF is also implicated in fibrosis, a persistent and excessive formation of scar tissue that can lead to organ failure.

"FibroGen is a leader in the field of developing anti-fibrotic therapeutics that target CTGF and its signaling pathways. We are pleased to receive funding from the NCI that will allow us to continue to explore the potential value of CTGF as an anti-cancer target and to develop novel cancer therapies," said Thomas B. Neff, Chief Executive Officer of FibroGen. "The antibodies developed in this project will potentially find application in both primary and late-stage treatment of cancer, indicating significant expansion opportunities for our CTGF-betaased technology in areas in addition to the treatment of fibrosis."

About FibroGen, Inc.

FibroGen, Inc., is a privately held biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of therapeutics and biomaterials to address unmet needs in the medical, pharmaceutical, and consumer markets. FibroGen s therapeutic target areas include fibrosis, anemia, and ischemia. FibroGen also develops and manufactures recombinant human collagen and gelatin biomaterials.

For more information about FibroGen, Inc., please visit http://www.fibrogen.com.