Reversal of multidrug-resistance using Valspodar (PSC 833) and doxorubicin in osteosarcoma

E Cagliero1, R Ferracini, E Morello

  • 1Istituto per la Ricerca e la Cura del Cancro (I.R.C.C.), 10060 Candiolo, Italy.

Oncology Reports
|October 20, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Valspodar (PSC 833) effectively reversed multidrug resistance (MDR) in osteosarcoma cells. This combination therapy with doxorubicin (DXR) showed promise for treating aggressive osteosarcoma by overcoming P-glycoprotein (Pgp) mediated resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Veterinary Medicine

Background:

  • High-grade osteosarcoma is aggressive, often presenting with widespread micrometastases.
  • Doxorubicin (DXR) is a key neoadjuvant chemotherapy, but multidrug resistance (MDR) via P-glycoprotein (Pgp) limits its efficacy.
  • MDR is a significant challenge in osteosarcoma treatment, leading to chemotherapy failure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the efficacy of Valspodar (PSC 833), a cyclosporine A derivative, in overcoming MDR in human osteosarcoma cells.
  • To assess Pgp expression in canine appendicular osteosarcoma.
  • To evaluate the safety and efficacy of combined DXR and PSC 833 treatment in dogs with osteosarcoma.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro analysis of PSC 833's effect on MDR human osteosarcoma cells.
  • Immunohistochemical evaluation of Pgp expression in canine osteosarcoma tissues.
  • In vivo study involving combined administration of DXR and PSC 833 to dogs, with pharmacokinetic monitoring.

Main Results:

  • PSC 833 reversed the MDR phenotype at clinically relevant concentrations.
  • Pgp expression was detected in 66.6% of canine osteosarcoma cases.
  • Combined DXR and PSC 833 treatment achieved therapeutic DXR exposure with a 30% dose reduction and no significant toxicity.

Conclusions:

  • PSC 833 demonstrates potential for reversing Pgp-mediated MDR in osteosarcoma.
  • The high incidence of Pgp in osteosarcoma supports MDR-targeted therapeutic strategies.
  • Combination therapy with DXR and PSC 833 offers a promising approach to enhance osteosarcoma treatment outcomes.