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Updated: Jun 3, 2026

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cancer Drug Sensitization In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: February 6, 2015
The next phase of chemoprevention research
Ezra E W Cohen1, Richard L Schilsky
1Section of Hematology/Oncology, Department of Medicine, University of Chicago MC2115, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Abstract:
Phase 0 clinical trials are meant to explore mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, or biodistribution of investigational compounds in an efficient manner with relatively few subjects. Phase 0 designs have been applied sparingly in cancer research, but this issue of the journal provides an example of their utility reported by Reid and colleagues (beginning on page 347). Indeed, aspects of the phase 0 design lend themselves well to chemoprevention research, suggesting that this approach will become more common in the near future.
Insights
Phase 0 clinical trials efficiently explore investigational drugs using few subjects. This design is useful for cancer research and chemoprevention, and is expected to become more common.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Cancer Research
- Drug Development
Background:
- Phase 0 clinical trials are early-stage, exploratory studies.
- They investigate mechanism of action, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and biodistribution.
- These trials use a small number of participants and are designed for efficiency.
Discussion:
- Phase 0 designs are particularly suited for chemoprevention research.
- The utility of Phase 0 trials in cancer research is highlighted by Reid and colleagues.
- This approach offers an efficient method for early-stage drug evaluation.
Key Insights:
- Phase 0 trials provide efficient exploration of investigational compounds.
- Their application in cancer research, especially chemoprevention, is valuable.
- The design allows for early assessment of drug behavior in humans.
Outlook:
- Phase 0 trial designs are anticipated to increase in frequency.
- Their efficiency makes them attractive for future drug development.
- Further application in cancer chemoprevention is expected.
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