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Retinoids in cancer therapy.
M A Smith1, D R Parkinson, B D Cheson
1Pediatric Section, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Summary
Retinoids, particularly all-trans retinoic acid (RA), show significant antitumor effects, especially in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Further research is needed to define responsive tumors and optimize retinoid-based cancer therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Retinoids are crucial for normal development.
- Retinoids exhibit differentiation and growth inhibition in tumor cells.
- Retinoid action is mediated by nuclear receptors (RARs).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review retinoid physiology and molecular biology relevant to oncology.
- To examine preclinical evidence of retinoid antitumor activity.
- To summarize clinical investigations of retinoids for cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on retinoid research.
- Analysis of studies on retinoid physiology and molecular biology.
- Compilation of data from preclinical and clinical investigations.
Main Results:
- Retinoids induce differentiation and inhibit growth in various tumor cell lines.
- All-trans retinoic acid (RA) shows high response rates in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL).
- Combinations like 13-cis-retinoic acid (cRA) with interferon alpha (IFN alpha) show promise in squamous cell carcinomas.
Conclusions:
- Antitumor activity of retinoids warrants further investigation in targeted phase II trials.
- Laboratory studies are needed to elucidate mechanisms of retinoid action.
- Phase III trials should explore combining retinoids with conventional therapies for optimal outcomes.