What is AP002 Mechanism of Action?
AP002 is a growth factor that binds to the EGF receptor. This results in the proliferation, differentiation, and migration of epithelial cells to deficient sites and helps in wound haling. These receptors are present in many tissues examined including the buccal mucosa, the linings of the esophagus, stomach and intestines etc. AP002 has demonstrated favorable results for the prevention and treatment of chemotherapy and radiation induced mucositis. Specifically, it acts at the stem cell level and is a therapeutic agent to resolve mucosal injuries through cell regeneration and initiating cyto-protective measures. It protects the mast cells against cytotoxic treatment, inhibit production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α, and inhibits enterocyte apoptosis through attenuation of Bax gene and stimulation of Bcl-2 which exacerbate mucositis. AP002 can be a “Standard of Care” for the prevention and treatment of radiation and chemotherapy induced mucositis.