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Cytotoxicity of dimethyl sulfoxide and antineoplastic combinations against human tumors
R F Pommier1, E A Woltering, G Milo
1Department of Surgery, Oregon Health Sciences University, Portland 97201.
Abstract:
Five human tumor reference cell lines were tested in vitro against 0 percent, 5 percent, and 10 percent DMSO; four antineoplastic agents; and combinations of 5 percent or 10 percent DMSO plus each antineoplastic agent. Synergistic cytotoxicity between DMSO and antineoplastic agents against each cell line were demonstrated. We have concluded that delivery of standard doses of antineoplastic agents in 5 percent or 10 percent DMSO may be useful in the treatment of some tumors because of the marked increase in tumoricidal effect seen with some DMSO and drug combinations. Alternatively, lower doses of antineoplastic agents might be delivered in DMSO, producing the same cytotoxic effect as a full dose of drug without DMSO but with less systemic toxicity.
Insights
Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) enhances the tumoricidal effects of antineoplastic agents. Combining DMSO with chemotherapy may improve cancer treatment efficacy or reduce drug toxicity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) is a versatile solvent with potential biological effects.
- Antineoplastic agents are crucial in cancer therapy but can cause significant systemic toxicity.
- Investigating drug-solvent interactions is vital for optimizing cancer treatment protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the in vitro cytotoxic effects of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) alone and in combination with antineoplastic agents.
- To determine if DMSO enhances the efficacy of chemotherapy against human tumor cell lines.
- To explore the potential of using DMSO to reduce the required dosage of antineoplastic drugs.
Main Methods:
- In vitro testing of five human tumor reference cell lines.
- Exposure to varying concentrations of DMSO (0%, 5%, 10%).
- Administration of four different antineoplastic agents, both alone and combined with 5% or 10% DMSO.
Main Results:
- Synergistic cytotoxic effects were observed between DMSO and antineoplastic agents across all tested cell lines.
- Specific combinations of DMSO and antineoplastic drugs demonstrated a marked increase in tumoricidal activity.
- The enhancement of cytotoxicity varied depending on the specific drug and cell line used.
Conclusions:
- DMSO, at concentrations of 5% or 10%, can significantly potentiate the cytotoxic effects of antineoplastic agents against human tumor cells.
- The use of DMSO in chemotherapy delivery may offer a strategy to increase treatment effectiveness.
- Alternatively, lower doses of antineoplastic agents delivered in DMSO could achieve comparable cytotoxicity with reduced systemic toxicity.