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[Clinical studies on interferon in cancer therapy in Japan]
Abstract:
Since the late 1970s, 18 clinical studies have been conducted in Japan with various types of human interferon (IFN) for their possible anti-tumor efficacy under the control of the Special Committee for Clinical Application of IFN of the Ministry of Health and Welfare. Objective antitumor effects have been observed in renal cell carcinoma, brain tumor, multiple myeloma, malignant lymphoma, adult T cell leukemia, chronic lymphocytic leukemia, chronic myelogenous leukemia, and by local injections in skin cancer such as malignant melanoma and cutaneous lymphoma. In this paper, updated results of clinical studies of the 3 types of IFNson various malignant tumors in Japan was reviewed, and the potential usefulness of IFNs as the first cytokine introduced into a clinical trial of the treatment of cancer was discussed.
Insights
Human interferon (IFN) has shown objective antitumor effects in various cancers, including renal cell carcinoma and skin cancer. This review discusses updated clinical study results and the potential of IFNs in cancer treatment.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Human interferon (IFN) research for anti-tumor efficacy began in Japan in the late 1970s.
- Clinical studies were conducted under the Ministry of Health and Welfare's Special Committee for Clinical Application of IFN.
- Interferons represent the first cytokine therapy introduced into cancer treatment clinical trials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review updated results of clinical studies involving three types of human interferons (IFNs).
- To discuss the potential usefulness of IFNs in treating various malignant tumors in Japan.
- To evaluate IFNs as a pioneering cytokine therapy in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of 18 clinical studies conducted in Japan since the late 1970s.
- Analysis of data from studies using various types of human interferons (IFNs).
- Inclusion of studies involving both systemic and local injection treatments.
Main Results:
- Objective antitumor effects were observed in renal cell carcinoma, brain tumors, multiple myeloma, malignant lymphoma, adult T cell leukemia, and chronic leukemias.
- Positive outcomes were noted with local injections for skin cancers like malignant melanoma and cutaneous lymphoma.
- Updated results from clinical studies of three IFN types on various malignant tumors were compiled.
Conclusions:
- Human interferons (IFNs) have demonstrated objective antitumor efficacy across a range of malignancies.
- IFNs show potential as a valuable therapeutic option in cancer treatment.
- The findings support the historical significance of IFNs as the first cytokine therapy in clinical trials for cancer.