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Updated: Aug 9, 2026

Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model
09:31

Orthotopic Implantation and Peripheral Immune Cell Monitoring in the II-45 Syngeneic Rat Mesothelioma Model

Published on: October 2, 2015

Ranpirnase--an antitumour ribonuclease: its potential role in malignant mesothelioma

Nick Pavlakis1, Nicholas J Vogelzang

  • 1Royal North Shore Hospital, Department of Medical Oncology, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia. pavlakis@med.usyd.edu.au

Expert Opinion on Biological Therapy
|March 22, 2006
PubMed

Insights

Ranpirnase (Onconase) shows promise in treating malignant mesothelioma (MM). Clinical trials suggest it may prolong stable disease and offer survival benefits, with a generally favorable safety profile.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry

Background:

  • Malignant mesothelioma (MM) is a rare and aggressive cancer.
  • Standard first-line treatments for MM have recently been established.
  • Ranpirnase (Onconase) is a novel cytotoxic ribonuclease under clinical investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of ranpirnase as a single agent for malignant mesothelioma.
  • To compare ranpirnase with doxorubicin in MM patients.

Main Methods:

  • Phase II and III clinical trials were conducted.
  • Ranpirnase was administered intravenously at 480 microg/m2 weekly.
  • Survival data and safety profiles were analyzed.

Main Results:

  • Phase II trials indicated prolonged periods of stable disease.
  • A potential survival benefit was observed compared to doxorubicin in a Phase III trial.
  • Ranpirnase demonstrated a favorable safety profile, with manageable allergic reactions and dose modifications for renal impairment.

Conclusions:

  • Ranpirnase shows potential as a therapeutic agent for malignant mesothelioma.
  • Further investigation in ongoing Phase III trials will clarify its role in combination therapy.

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