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Multidrug resistance in cancer chemotherapy
1Clinical Pharmacy Program, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7884.
Abstract:
Resistance to chemotherapy is the single most important reason for treatment failure in cancer patients. Over the past 15 years, we have gained significant insight into one of the mechanisms responsible for this process: multidrug resistance (MDR). Far from being a phenomenon limited to the laboratory, multidrug resistance has been identified in a wide variety of newly diagnosed and recurrent human tumors. A number of compounds can block p-glycoprotein and overcome MDR in vitro and in vivo. Current strategies to block MDR are discussed in this review. Future research in this area will focus on the identification of more selective and potent MDR reversing agents and the development of entirely new approaches to overcoming multidrug resistance such as monoclonal antibodies, immunotoxins, and gene therapy.
Insights
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a key factor in cancer treatment failure. Researchers are exploring compounds and novel therapies like gene therapy to overcome MDR and improve patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Chemotherapy resistance is a primary cause of cancer treatment failure.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a significant mechanism underlying treatment failure.
- MDR has been observed in various human cancers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current strategies for blocking multidrug resistance (MDR).
- To discuss the role of p-glycoprotein in MDR.
- To explore future research directions for overcoming MDR.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on multidrug resistance (MDR).
- Discussion of compounds that inhibit p-glycoprotein.
- Analysis of in vitro and in vivo studies related to MDR reversal.
Main Results:
- Compounds exist that can block p-glycoprotein and reverse MDR.
- Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a clinically relevant phenomenon.
- Current strategies for MDR blockade are under investigation.
Conclusions:
- Further research is needed to identify more potent MDR reversing agents.
- Novel approaches including monoclonal antibodies, immunotoxins, and gene therapy show promise.
- Overcoming multidrug resistance is crucial for enhancing cancer therapy efficacy.