Anti-tumour activity in vitro and in vivo of selective differentiating agents containing hydroxamate
1999

Selective Anti-Tumour Agents with Low Toxicity

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Qiu L, Kelso M J, Hansen C, West M L, Fairlie D P, Parsons P G

Primary Institution: Queensland Cancer Fund Laboratories, Queensland Institute of Medical Research

Hypothesis

Hydroxamates can selectively target and kill tumour cells without harming normal cells.

Conclusion

Hydroxamates show potential as selective anti-tumour agents that do not harm normal cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • Hydroxamates were selectively toxic to transformed and human tumour cells.
  • Normal cells were not harmed at the same concentrations as tumour cells.
  • Treatment led to morphological changes in tumour cells towards a more normal appearance.
  • Histone H4 acetylation occurred rapidly and was reversible in both tumour and normal cells.
  • Two hydroxamates inhibited growth of human melanoma xenografts in mice without developing resistance.

Takeaway

Some special drugs can kill cancer cells without hurting healthy cells, which is really good for treatment.

Methodology

The study involved testing hydroxamates on transformed and human tumour cells and observing their effects in vitro and in vivo.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6690493

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