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[Development of antimetabolites, II]
1Cancer Chemotherapy Center, Japanese Foundation for Cancer Research.
Gan to Kagaku Ryoho. Cancer & Chemotherapy
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Two novel chemotherapy agents, gemcitabine (an ara-C analogue) and several methotrexate (MTX) analogues, show promise against lung cancer. Ongoing clinical trials in Japan are evaluating their efficacy and safety.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Cytosine arabinoside (ara-C) and methotrexate (MTX) are established chemotherapy agents.
- Development of novel analogues aims to improve efficacy and reduce toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical progress of two ara-C analogues (gemcitabine and DMDC) and three MTX analogues (edatrexate, trimetrexate, and TNP-351) in Japan.
- To assess their antitumor activity, particularly against lung cancer.
Main Methods:
- Clinical studies (Phase I and II) are evaluating the safety and efficacy of these drug analogues.
- Comparative analysis of antitumor efficacies and animal toxicities.
Main Results:
- Gemcitabine and DMDC (ara-C analogues) exhibit similar antitumor effects with mild toxicity.
- Edatrexate and trimetrexate (MTX analogues) have shown positive responses in lung cancer patients.
- DMDC is in Phase I, while dFdC (another ara-C analogue) is in Phase II for lung cancer.
- Edatrexate and trimetrexate are in Phase II, and TNP-351 is in Phase I clinical studies.
Conclusions:
- Novel ara-C and MTX analogues demonstrate potential as effective treatments for lung cancer.
- Ongoing clinical trials are crucial for establishing the therapeutic value of these new agents.