Bevacizumab acts by selectively binding circulating VEGF, thereby inhibiting the binding of VEGF to its cell surface receptors. This inhibition leads to a reduction in microvascular growth of tumor blood vessels and thus limits the blood supply to tumor tissues.

How does bevacizumab work against cancer growth and development?

How it works. Bevacizumab targets a cancer cell protein called vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). This protein helps cancers to grow blood vessels, so they can get food and oxygen from the blood. All cancers need a blood supply to be able to survive and grow.

Does Avastin prolong life?

“Avastin has helped people with five different incurable cancers; many have lived a longer time without their disease worsening, and in certain cases, Avastin has extended their lives,” says Charlotte Arnold, senior manager of corporate relations for Genentech.