Using Angiotensin II to Target Tumors with Microspheres
Author Information
Author(s): J.A. Goldberg, T. Murray, D.J. Kerr, N. Willmott, R.G. Bessent, J.H. McKillop, C.S. McArdle
Primary Institution: University Department of Surgery, Royal Infirmary, Glasgow
Hypothesis
Can angiotensin II enhance the delivery of cytotoxic microspheres to liver tumors?
Conclusion
Angiotensin II infusion significantly increases the delivery of drug-loaded microspheres to liver tumors.
Supporting Evidence
- Angiotensin II infusion increased the tumor:normal ratio of microsphere delivery by a factor of 2.8.
- Prior to angiotensin II infusion, microsphere uptake in tumors was less than in normal liver.
- Five out of nine patients showed more than double the uptake of microspheres in tumors after angiotensin II infusion.
Takeaway
Doctors are trying to use a special chemical to help tiny drug-filled balls reach cancer in the liver better.
Methodology
A double isotope technique was used to measure the distribution of radiolabelled microspheres in tumor and normal liver tissue before and after angiotensin II infusion.
Limitations
The study had a small sample size and the effects of angiotensin II were short-lived.
Participant Demographics
Nine patients with liver metastases, mean age 56 years, including eight with colorectal cancer.
Statistical Information
P-Value
P<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
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