Approaches to ablating the myelotoxicity of chemotherapy

Myelotoxicity remains a significant dose-limiting side effect of chemotherapy contributing to the morbidity and mortality of patients undergoing treatment for cancer. A number of different experimental approaches are being studied, both in the clinic and in the laboratory, in an attempt to prevent this iatrogenic complication. The present review provides a synopsis of the various myeloprotective strategies now being employed in experimental trials. Emphasis is placed on the use of putative physiologic bioregulatory molecules (lactoferrin, prostaglandin E, interferon) to prevent or lessen chemotherapy-induced myelotoxicity, with consideration also given to other promising treatment modalities (i.e., adenosine, lithium, diethyldithiocarbanate).