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Updated: Feb 15, 2026
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Removal of Arsenic Using a Cationic Polymer Gel Impregnated with Iron Hydroxide
Published on: June 28, 2019
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Arsenic trioxide: insights into its evolution to an anticancer agent
Maneka Hoonjan1, Vaibhav Jadhav1, Purvi Bhatt2
1Department of Biological Sciences, NMIMS Sunandan Divatia School of Science, NMIMS (Deemed-to-be-University), Vile Parle (West), Mumbai, 400056, India.
Summary
Arsenic trioxide, once a poison, is now a vital cancer treatment, particularly for acute promyelocytic leukemia. This review explores its history, therapeutic mechanisms, and future potential in nanoformulations.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Oncology
- Medical History
Background:
- Arsenic compounds have a long history in traditional Chinese medicine, dating back over 2000 years.
- Historically viewed as a poison, arsenic's therapeutic potential for diseases like syphilis and cancer has been recognized.
- The efficacy of arsenic trioxide in treating acute promyelocytic leukemia has led to its re-evaluation in Western medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the historical use of arsenic and its various forms as therapeutic agents.
- To provide an in-depth analysis of arsenic trioxide's role in modern medicine, focusing on its application in cancer treatment.
- To discuss the latest advancements, clinical trials, and future prospects of arsenic trioxide, including nanoformulations.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of historical texts and modern scientific publications.
- Analysis of clinical trial data and research on arsenic trioxide's mechanism of action.
- Exploration of pharmacokinetic profiles, safety data, and emerging therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Arsenic trioxide has demonstrated significant efficacy in treating acute promyelocytic leukemia, altering its toxic perception.
- Ongoing research investigates its potential against other leukemias and solid tumors.
- New developments include novel arsenic trioxide formulations, such as nanoformulations, enhancing its therapeutic profile.
Conclusions:
- Arsenic trioxide represents a successful transition from a historical poison to a valuable chemotherapeutic agent.
- Its established efficacy and ongoing research into new applications and delivery systems underscore its importance in oncology.
- Further investigation into arsenic trioxide, particularly in advanced formulations, promises expanded therapeutic applications.
Keywords:
Acute promyelocytic leukaemiaAnticancer drugArsenic trioxideCancerIn silicoNanotechnologySolid tumourMore Related Videos
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