In vivo activity of novel sulphonic derivatives of distamycin A

Solid tumor growth can be modulated through inhibition of vascularization elicited by angiogenic factors. With the objective to complex these factors, new derivatives of distamycin A were synthesized and evaluated in vitro [1] and in vivo for their ability, after i.v. administration, to inhibit bFGF-induced vascularization and the growth of M5076 murine reticulosarcoma implanted i.m. The tested compounds were able to block angiogenesis with inhibition values ranging between 70-100%. Moreover, they were found to be capable of inducing tumor inhibition with values ranging between 40% and 95% at non-toxic doses.