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Chemoprevention of cancer
1Department of Pharmacology, Dartmouth Medical School, Hanover, NH 03755, USA. michael.b.sporn@dartmouth.edu
Abstract:
In this short article, we review the conceptual basis for chemoprevention of cancer, the proven clinical efficacy of this concept, and current trends to develop new chemopreventive agents based on understanding of their mechanisms of action. Four classes of new agents, namely selective inhibitors of cyclooxygenase-2, selective estrogen receptor modulators, rexinoids (retinoids that bind selectively to the receptors known as RXRs) and ligands for the peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma are discussed in detail. The importance of developing totally new classes of chemopreventive agents is stressed, with particular emphasis on the potential usefulness of new synthetic triterpenoids derived from naturally occurring molecules.
Insights
Cancer chemoprevention is a proven strategy. New agents like selective COX-2 inhibitors and rexinoids are being developed, alongside novel synthetic triterpenoids, to enhance cancer prevention efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chemoprevention offers a promising strategy for cancer risk reduction.
- Understanding molecular mechanisms is key to developing effective chemopreventive agents.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the conceptual basis and clinical efficacy of cancer chemoprevention.
- To discuss current trends and new classes of chemopreventive agents.
- To highlight the potential of novel synthetic triterpenoids.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on cancer chemoprevention.
- Discussion of specific classes of chemopreventive agents and their mechanisms of action.
Main Results:
- Established clinical efficacy of chemoprevention strategies.
- Detailed discussion of four classes of emerging agents: selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, selective estrogen receptor modulators, rexinoids, and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-gamma ligands.
- Emphasis on the need for novel chemopreventive agents.
Conclusions:
- Chemoprevention is a clinically validated approach to cancer control.
- Targeted therapies and novel compounds, including synthetic triterpenoids, represent the future of cancer chemoprevention.
- Further research into new classes of agents is crucial for advancing cancer prevention.