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Fenretinide and its relation to cancer

E Ulukaya1, E J Wood

  • 1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.

Cancer Treatment Reviews
|August 17, 1999
PubMed

Insights

Fenretinide (4HPR) is a synthetic retinoid with fewer side-effects than natural retinoids. It effectively induces apoptosis, even in resistant cells, via unique pathways, showing promise as an anticancer drug.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Retinoids, vitamin A derivatives, exhibit anticancer and differentiation-inducing properties.
  • Many retinoids cause significant side effects, limiting clinical applications.
  • Fenretinide (4HPR) is a synthetic retinoid with a potentially improved side-effect profile.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the mechanisms of action for fenretinide (4HPR).
  • To summarize clinical trial outcomes for fenretinide.
  • To evaluate fenretinide as a promising anticancer agent.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on fenretinide's biological activity.
  • Analysis of preclinical data regarding fenretinide's mechanism of action.
  • Compilation and summary of data from fenretinide clinical trials.

Main Results:

  • Fenretinide demonstrates anticancer activity and induces apoptosis.
  • Fenretinide exhibits efficacy in cell lines resistant to other retinoids like all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA).
  • Fenretinide appears to operate through distinct apoptotic pathways compared to classical retinoids.

Conclusions:

  • Fenretinide is a promising anticancer drug with a favorable side-effect profile.
  • Fenretinide's unique mechanism of action warrants further investigation.
  • Clinical trials suggest potential therapeutic benefits of fenretinide.

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