1
|
Kim SY, Jo MJ, Yoon MS, Jin CE, Shin YB, Lee JM, Shin HJ, Oh JG, Cho JM, Kim H, Park H, Choi YW, Park CW, Kim JS, Shin DH. Gemcitabine and rapamycin-loaded mixed polymeric thermogel for metastatic pancreatic cancer therapy. J Control Release 2023; 360:796-809. [PMID: 37437850 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconrel.2023.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Revised: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the 4th leading cause of cancer-related death and has a poor 5-year overall survival. The superior therapeutic benefits of combination or co-administration of drugs as intraperitoneal chemotherapy have increased interest in developing strategies to deliver chemotherapeutic agents to patients safely. In this study, we prepared a gel comprising the thermosensitive poly(lactide-co-glycolide)-b-poly(ethylene glycol)-b-poly(lactide-co-glycolide) (PLGA-PEG-PLGA) polymer and gemcitabine (GEM), which is currently used as the primary chemotherapy for PDAC and rapamycin (RAPA), a mammalian TOR (mTOR) inhibitor, to deliver the drug through intraperitoneal injection. We performed in vitro cytotoxicity experiments to verify the synergistic effects of the two drugs at different molar ratios and characterized the physicochemical properties of the GEM, RAPA, and GEM/RAPA-loaded thermosensitive PLGA-PEG-PLGA gels, hereafter referred to as (g(G), g(R), and g(GR)), respectively. The g(GR) comprising PLGA-PEG-PLGA polymer (25% w/v) and GEM and RAPA at a molar ratio of 11:1 showed synergism and was optimized. An in vitro cytotoxicity assay was performed by treating Panc-1-luc2 tumor spheroids with g(G), g(R), or g(GR). The g(GR) treatment group showed a 2.75-fold higher inhibition rate than the non-treated (NT) and vehicle-treated groups. Furthermore, in vivo drug release assay in mice by intraperitoneal injection of g(G), g(R), or g(GR) showed a more rapid release rate of GEM than RAPA, similar to the in vitro release pattern. The drugs in the gel were released faster in vivo than in vitro and degraded in 48 h. In addition, g(GR) showed the highest anti-tumor efficacy with no toxicity to mice. These results provide evidence for the safety and efficacy of g(GR) for intraperitoneal drug delivery. This study will assist in developing and clinically administering topical anti-cancer formulations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Seo Yeon Kim
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Min Jeong Jo
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Moon Sup Yoon
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Chae Eun Jin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Yu Been Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Min Lee
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee Ji Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Joon Gyo Oh
- R&D Center, Huons Co., Ltd., Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Jae Min Cho
- R&D Center, Huons Co., Ltd., Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjun Kim
- R&D Center, Huons Co., Ltd., Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyunjin Park
- R&D Center, Huons Co., Ltd., Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Won Choi
- R&D Center, Huons Co., Ltd., Ansan, 15588, Republic of Korea
| | - Chun-Woong Park
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Seok Kim
- Drug Information Research Institute (DIRI), College of Pharmacy, Sookmyung Women's University, Seoul 04310, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae Hwan Shin
- College of Pharmacy, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 28160, Republic of Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Lee JH, Lee SH, Lee SK, Choi JH, Lim S, Kim MS, Lee KM, Lee MW, Ku JL, Kim DH, Cho IR, Paik WH, Ryu JK, Kim YT. Antiproliferative Activity of Krukovine by Regulating Transmembrane Protein 139 (TMEM139) in Oxaliplatin-Resistant Pancreatic Cancer Cells. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:cancers15092642. [PMID: 37174108 PMCID: PMC10177337 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15092642] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 04/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Krukovine (KV) is an alkaloid isolated from the bark of Abuta grandifolia (Mart.) Sandw. (Menispermaceae) with anticancer potential in some cancers with KRAS mutations. In this study, we explored the anticancer efficacy and mechanism of KV in oxaliplatin-resistant pancreatic cancer cells and patient-derived pancreatic cancer organoids (PDPCOs) with KRAS mutation. After treatment with KV, mRNA and protein levels were determined by RNA-seq and Western blotting, respectively. Cell proliferation, migration, and invasion were measured by MTT, scratch wound healing assay, and transwell analysis, respectively. Patient-derived pancreatic cancer organoids (PDPCOs) with KRAS mutations were treated with KV, oxaliplatin (OXA), and a combination of KV and OXA. KV suppresses tumor progression via the downregulation of the Erk-RPS6K-TMEM139 and PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathways in oxaliplatin-resistant AsPC-1 cells. Furthermore, KV showed an antiproliferative effect in PDPCOs, and the combination of OXA and KV inhibited PDPCO growth more effectively than either drug alone.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jee-Hyung Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Pharmacy, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Hyub Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Sang-Kook Lee
- Natural Products Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Pharmacy, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin-Ho Choi
- Department of Medicine, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul 03181, Republic of Korea
| | - Seohyun Lim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Song Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyung-Min Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Min-Woo Lee
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ja-Lok Ku
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Korean Cell Line Bank, Laboratory of Cell Biology and Cancer Research Institute, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Dae-Hyun Kim
- Dxome Co., Ltd., Seongnam 331, Republic of Korea
| | - In-Rae Cho
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Woo-Hyun Paik
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Ji-Kon Ryu
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Yong-Tae Kim
- Department of Internal Medicine and Liver Research Institute, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Periplocin exerts antitumor activity by regulating Nrf2-mediated signaling pathway in gemcitabine-resistant pancreatic cancer cells. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 157:114039. [PMID: 36423542 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2022.114039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Although gemcitabine-based chemotherapy is common and effective for pancreatic cancer (PC), acquired drug resistance is one of the major reasons for treatment failure. Therefore, a novel therapeutic approach for gemcitabine-resistant PC is required. Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an oxidative stress-responsive transcription factor regulating antioxidant responses and plays a crucial role in chemoresistance. In the present study, the antitumor activity of periplocin, a natural cardiac glycoside, was evaluated in an established gemcitabine-resistant PC cell line (PANC-GR). Nrf2 was overexpressed in gemcitabine-resistant cells, and Nrf2 knockdown recovered gemcitabine sensitivity in PANC-GR cells. The antiproliferative activity of periplocin was highly associated with Nrf2 downregulation and Nrf2-mediated signaling pathways in PANC-GR cells. Periplocin also increased reactive oxygen species production inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis in PANC-GR cells. Periplocin and gemcitabine combined significantly inhibited tumor growth in a PANC-GR cells-implanted xenograft mouse model via Nrf2 downregulation. Overall, these findings suggest that periplocin might be a novel therapeutic agent against gemcitabine resistance, as it could recover sensitivity to gemcitabine by regulating Nrf2-mediated signaling pathways in gemcitabine-resistant PC cells.
Collapse
|
4
|
Aier I, Varadwaj PK. Understanding the Mechanism of Cell Death in Gemcitabine Resistant Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Systems Biology Approach. Curr Genomics 2019; 20:483-490. [PMID: 32655287 PMCID: PMC7327974 DOI: 10.2174/1389202920666191025102726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2019] [Revised: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gemcitabine is the standard chemotherapeutic drug administered in advanced Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, due to drug resistance in PDAC patients, this treatment has become less effective. Over the years, clinical trials for the quest of finding novel compounds that can be used in combination with gemcitabine have met very little success. OBJECTIVE To predict the driving factors behind pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, and to understand the effect of these components in the progression of the disease and their contribution to cell growth and proliferation. METHODS With the help of systems biology approaches and using gene expression data, which is generally found in abundance, dysregulated elements in key signalling pathways were predicted. Prominent dysregulated elements were integrated into a model to simulate and study the effect of gemcitabine-induced hypoxia. RESULTS In this study, several transcription factors in the form of key drivers of cancer-related genes were predicted with the help of CARNIVAL, and the effect of gemcitabine-induced hypoxia on the apoptosis pathway was shown to have an effect on the downstream elements of two primary pathway models; EGF/VEGF and TNF signalling pathway. CONCLUSION It was observed that EGF/VEGF signalling pathway played a major role in inducing drug resistance through cell growth, proliferation, and avoiding cell death. Targeting the major upstream components of this pathway could potentially lead to successful treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Imlimaong Aier
- Department of Bioinformatics and Applied Science, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, 20015, India
| | - Pritish K. Varadwaj
- Department of Bioinformatics and Applied Science, Indian Institute of Information Technology, Allahabad, 20015, India
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Amodeo S, Masi A, Melis M, Ryan T, Hochster HS, Cohen DJ, Chandra A, Pachter HL, Newman E. Can we downstage locally advanced pancreatic cancer to resectable? A phase I/II study of induction oxaliplatin and 5-FU chemoradiation. J Gastrointest Oncol 2018; 9:922-935. [PMID: 30505595 PMCID: PMC6219979 DOI: 10.21037/jgo.2017.10.04] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Half of patients with pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PC) present with regionally advanced disease. This includes borderline resectable and locally advanced unresectable tumors as defined by current NCCN guidelines for resectability. Chemoradiation (CH-RT) is used in this setting in attempt to control local disease, and possibly downstage to resectable disease. We report a phase I/II trial of a combination of 5FU/Oxaliplatin with concurrent radiation in patients presenting with borderline resectable and locally advanced unresectable pancreatic cancer. METHODS Patients with biopsy-proven borderline resectable or locally advanced unresectable PC were eligible. Chemotherapy included continuous infusion 5FU (200 mg/m2) daily and oxaliplatin weekly for 5 weeks in dose escalation cohorts, ranging from 30 to 60 mg/m2. Concurrent radiation therapy consisted of 4,500 cGy in 25 fractions (180 cGy/fx/d) followed by a comedown to the tumor and margins for an additional 540 cGy ×3 (total dose 5,040 cGy in 28 fractions). Following completion of CH-RT, patients deemed resectable underwent surgery; those who remained unresectable for cure but did not progress (SD, stable disease) received mFOLFOX6 ×6 cycles. Survival was calculated using Kaplan-Meier analysis. End-points of the phase II portion were resectability and overall survival. RESULTS Overall, 24 subjects (15 men and 9 women, mean age 64.5 years) were enrolled between June 2004 and December 2009 and received CH-RT. Seventeen patients were enrolled in the Phase I component of the study, fifteen of whom completed neoadjuvant therapy. Reasons for not completing treatment included grade 3 toxicities (1 patient) and withdrawal of consent (1 patient). The highest dose of oxaliplatin (60 mg/m2) was well tolerated and it was used as the recommended phase II dose. An additional 7 patients were treated in the phase II portion, 5 of whom completed CH-RT; the remaining 2 patients did not complete treatment because of grade 3 toxicities. Overall, 4/24 did not complete CH-RT. Grade 4 toxicities related to initial CH-RT were observed during phase I (n=2, pulmonary embolism and lymphopenia) and phase II (n=3, fatigue, leukopenia and thrombocytopenia). Following restaging after completion of CH-RT, 4 patients had progressed (PD); 9 patients had SD and received additional chemotherapy with mFOLFOX6 (one of them had a dramatic response after two cycles and underwent curative resection); the remaining 7 patients (29.2%) were noted to have a response and were explored: 2 had PD, 4 had SD, still unresectable, and 1 patient was resected for cure with negative margins. Overall 2 patients (8.3%) in the study received curative resection following neoadjuvant therapy. Median overall survival for the entire study population was 11.4 months. Overall survival for the two resected patients was 41.7 and 21.6 months. CONCLUSIONS Combined modality treatment for borderline resectable and locally advanced unresectable pancreatic cancer with oxaliplatin, 5FU and radiation was reasonably well tolerated. The majority of patients remained unresectable. Survival data with this regimen were comparable to others for locally advanced pancreas cancer, suggesting the need for more novel approaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Amodeo
- Department of Surgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Antonio Masi
- Department of Surgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Surgery, New York Harbor Healthcare System VAMC, New York, NY, USA
| | - Marcovalerio Melis
- Department of Surgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Surgery, New York Harbor Healthcare System VAMC, New York, NY, USA
| | - Theresa Ryan
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Howard S. Hochster
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Deirdre J. Cohen
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Anurag Chandra
- Division of Hematology and Medical Oncology, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - H. Leon Pachter
- Department of Surgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Elliot Newman
- Department of Surgery, NYU School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Surgery, New York Harbor Healthcare System VAMC, New York, NY, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Comparative study of the therapeutic effect of Doxorubicin and Resveratrol combination on 2D and 3D (spheroids) cell culture models. Int J Pharm 2018; 551:76-83. [PMID: 30217766 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2018.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
The assessment of drug-combinations for pancreatic cancer treatment is usually performed in 2D cell cultures. In this study, the therapeutic effect and the synergistic potential of a particular drug-combination towards 2D and 3D cell cultures of pancreatic cancer were compared for the first time. Thus, the effect of Doxorubicin:Resveratrol (DOX:RES) combinations (at molar ratios ranging from 5:1 to 1:5) in the viability of PANC-1 cells cultured as 2D monolayers and as 3D spheroids was analyzed. The results showed that the cells' viability was more affected when DOX:RES combinations containing higher contents of RES (1:2-1:5 molar ratios) were used. This can be explained by the ability of RES to reduce the P-glycoprotein (P-gp)-mediated efflux of DOX. Further, it was also revealed that the synergic effect of this drug combination was different in 2D and in 3D cell cultures. In fact, despite of the 1:4 and 1:5 DOX:RES ratios being both synergistic for both types of PANC-1 cell cultures, their Combination Indexes (CI) in the monolayers were lower than those attained in spheroids. Overall, the obtained results revealed that the DOX:RES combination is promising for pancreatic cancer treatment and corroborate the emergent need to evaluate drug combinations in 3D cell cultures.
Collapse
|
7
|
Ghosh S, Das T, D Sarma H, Dash A. The potential of radiolabeled chemotherapeutics in tumor diagnosis: Preliminary investigations with 68 Ga-gemcitabine. Drug Dev Res 2018; 79:111-118. [PMID: 29380405 DOI: 10.1002/ddr.21423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Preclinical Research & Development Gemcitabine, a nucleoside analog, is a well-known chemotherapeutic drug that is used either alone or with other agents to treat a wide variety of cancers. The aim of the present work was to evaluate the potential of 68 Ga-labeled gemcitabine for its application in positron emission tomography (PET) imaging of tumorous lesions. Gemcitabine was coupled with p-NCS-benzyl-DOTA in order to facilitate radiolabeling with 68 Ga. The gemcitabine-p-NCS-benzyl-DOTA was radiolabeled with 68 Ga, obtained from a 68 Ge/68 Ga radionuclide generator. The radiolabeled product was characterized by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and its tumor specificity was evaluated by biodistribution studies in Swiss mice bearing fibrosarcoma tumors. Preliminary bioevaluation study showed good tumor uptake within 1 hr post-administration [2.5% Injected Activity (IA) per g of tumor] with rapid renal clearance (>90% IA) and a high tumor to muscle ratio. 68 Ga-gemcitabine may have potential as a PET agent for tumor imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Subhajit Ghosh
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Tapas Das
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| | - Haladhar D Sarma
- Radiation Biology and Health Sciences Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India
| | - Ashutosh Dash
- Radiopharmaceuticals Division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Trombay, Mumbai, 400085, India.,Homi Bhabha National Institute, Anushaktinagar, Mumbai, 400094, India
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Miyake K, Mori R, Homma Y, Matsuyama R, Okayama A, Murakami T, Hirano H, Endo I. MZB1 in borderline resectable pancreatic cancer resected after neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy. J Surg Res 2017; 220:391-401. [PMID: 29180208 DOI: 10.1016/j.jss.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A high accumulation of CD8+ tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) induced by neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (NACRT) is associated with a favorable prognosis in patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). However, the correlation between a high accumulation of CD8+ TILs and a favorable prognosis has yet to be fully clarified. The aim of this study was to determine predictive markers of a high accumulation of CD8+ TILs, with a favorable prognosis, using proteomic analysis. MATERIALS AND METHODS We studied 72 resected borderline resectable PDAC patients treated with NACRT between April 2009 and March 2014. Three matched pairs of high CD8+ TIL patients with a favorable prognosis and low CD8+ TIL patients with a poor prognosis were selected. Shotgun proteomics of the stroma and cancerous lesion was performed using formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Validation of the identified proteins was performed using immunohistochemical staining. Relationships between the identified proteins and TILs and clinical outcomes were assessed. RESULTS Marginal zone B- and B1-cell-specific protein (MZB1) was detected in the tumor stroma. MZB1 expression was positively correlated with a high accumulation of CD8+ TILs. High stromal MZB1 expression also correlated with disease-free and overall survival. In a subgroup analysis of CD8+ expression, there was a significant association between stromal MZB1 expression and disease-free and overall survival in the high CD8+ TIL group. CONCLUSIONS MZB1 is a potential marker of a high accumulation of CD8+ TILs in borderline resectable PDACs resected after NACRT. Combination of CD8+ TILs with MZB1 may be a new biomarker of resected cases after NACRT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kentaro Miyake
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ryutaro Mori
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Yuki Homma
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Ryusei Matsuyama
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Akiko Okayama
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Takashi Murakami
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Hisashi Hirano
- Advanced Medical Research Center, Yokohama City University, Yokohama, Japan
| | - Itaru Endo
- Department of Gastroenterological Surgery, Yokohama City University Graduate School of Medicine, Yokohama, Japan.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Heinrich S, Lang H. Neoadjuvant Therapy of Pancreatic Cancer: Definitions and Benefits. Int J Mol Sci 2017; 18:ijms18081622. [PMID: 28933761 PMCID: PMC5578014 DOI: 10.3390/ijms18081622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2017] [Revised: 07/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard treatment of resectable pancreatic cancer is surgery followed by adjuvant chemotherapy. Due to the complication rate of pancreatic surgery and the high rate of primary irresectability, neoadjuvant concepts are increasingly used for pancreatic cancer. Neoadjuvant therapy is better tolerated than adjuvant and might decrease the surgical complication rate from pancreatic surgery. In contrast to neoadjuvant chemoradiation, the nutritional status improves during neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Also, the survival of patients who develop postoperative complications after neoadjuvant therapy is comparable to those without complications whereas the survival of patients who underwent upfront surgery and then develop surgical complications is impaired. Moreover, large data base analyses suggest a down-sizing effect and improvement of overall survival by neoadjuvant therapy. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy appears to be equally efficient in converting irresectable in resectable disease and more efficient with regard to systemic tumor progression and overall survival compared to neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy. Despite these convincing findings from mostly small phase II trials, neoadjuvant therapy has not yet proven superiority over upfront surgery in randomized trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Heinrich
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
| | - Hauke Lang
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplantation Surgery, University Hospital of Mainz, Langenbeckstrasse 1, 55131 Mainz, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Khare V, Sakarchi WA, Gupta PN, Curtis ADM, Hoskins C. Synthesis and characterization of TPGS–gemcitabine prodrug micelles for pancreatic cancer therapy. RSC Adv 2016. [DOI: 10.1039/c6ra09347g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Evaluation of a novel polymer-drug conjugate formulation in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Khare
- Institute of Science and Technology in Medicine
- Keele University
- Keele
- UK
- Formulation and Drug Delivery Division
| | | | - Prem N. Gupta
- Formulation and Drug Delivery Division
- CSIR-Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine
- India 180001
| | | | - Clare Hoskins
- Institute of Science and Technology in Medicine
- Keele University
- Keele
- UK
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Xiao Z, Ding N, Xiao G, Wang S, Wu Y, Tang L. Reversal of multidrug resistance by gefitinib via RAF1/ERK pathway in pancreatic cancer cell line. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2012; 295:2122-8. [PMID: 22907845 DOI: 10.1002/ar.22552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2012] [Accepted: 06/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is a devastating malignancy, characterized by intrinsic or acquired resistance to conventional chemotherapies. Recent evidences suggest an involvement of tyrosine kinase pathway in the regulation of multidrug resistance (MDR) protein gene expression. The aim of this study was to test whether gefitinib, an epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor could regulate the MDR protein gene expression and sensitize the resistant cancer cells to chemotherapy. The gene expression of MDR proteins (MRP1, MRP2, MRP3, and PGP) were evaluated by quantitative RT-PCR, and expression levels of various tyrosine kinases were investigated by quantitative RT-PCR and Western blot in pancreatic cancer cell line. MTT assay was used for evaluating the effect of chemotherapeutic agents. Chemotherapeutics induced drug resistance by regulating the gene expression of MDR proteins (MRP1, MRP2, and MRP3), and increased the gene expression of RAF1/ERK and the phosphorylation of ERK in pancreatic cancer Bxpc-3 cells. Gefitinib caused an inhibition of p-ERK tyrosine kinase activation in a dose-dependent manner, and reversed gemcitabine-induced RAF1/ERK gene expression and p-ERK activation. In addition, a reversal of MDR proteins gene expression was achieved by gefitinib, which sensitized resistant cells to gemcitabine. This study demonstrated that MDR of Bxpc-3 cell is involved in the RAF1/ERK tyrosine kinase pathway. Gefitinib reverses the MDR protein gene expression and restores sensitivity of resistant cells to gemcitabine via RAF1/ERK signaling pathway. Combination of gefitinib with conventional chemotherapeutic agents may offer a new approach for the treatment of patients with pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhi Xiao
- Department of Breast Surgery, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha 410008, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Chen Y, Kang M, Lu W, Guo Q, Zhang B, Xie Q, Wu Y. DJ-1, a novel biomarker and a selected target gene for overcoming chemoresistance in pancreatic cancer. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2012; 138:1463-74. [PMID: 22526154 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-012-1205-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2012] [Accepted: 03/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Aberrant expression of DJ-1 has been proven to be associated with tumorigenesis in many carcinomas. However, its role in pancreatic cancer is unknown. The aims of this study were to investigate whether the serum DJ-1 might be a potential biomarker for pancreatic cancer and to determine the biologic function of DJ-1 expression in gemcitabine-induced chemoresistance of pancreatic cancer. METHODS The serum level of DJ-1 was higher in 128 pancreatic cancer patients compared with 62 healthy controls by ELISA. To determine the effect of DJ-1 on pancreatic tumor chemoresistance, a siRNA-targeting DJ-1 was synthesized and a stably transfected cell line with DJ-1 over-expression was constructed. The mechanism of tumor chemoresistance was assessed by multiple methods, such as MTT assay, real-time PCR, Western blot and flow cytometry. RESULTS The serum level of DJ-1 was higher in pancreatic cancer patients than healthy controls, and it has the relationship with tumor differentiation in pancreatic cancer. Down-regulation of DJ-1 enhanced gemcitabine-induced apoptosis in three pancreatic cancer cell lines. On the contrary, over-expression of DJ-1 desensitized the MIA PaCa-2 to the induction of apoptosis by gemcitabine. CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the serum level of DJ-1 may be a potential biomarker for pancreatic cancer, and that DJ-1 plays critical roles in the pancreatic tumor chemoresistance, supporting the development of chemotherapeutic approaches targeting this oncogene.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ying Chen
- Department of Surgery, Second Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Cancer Institute of Zhejiang University, Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou, 310009, Zhejiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
13
|
Xenidis N, Chelis L, Amarantidis K, Chamalidou E, Dimopoulos P, Courcoutsakis N, Tentes A, Chiotis A, Prassopoulos P, Kakolyris S. Docetaxel plus gemcitabine in combination with capecitabine as treatment for inoperable pancreatic cancer: a phase II study. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 2011; 69:477-84. [PMID: 21858532 DOI: 10.1007/s00280-011-1717-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2011] [Accepted: 07/25/2011] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the activity and tolerance of gemcitabine in combination with docetaxel and capecitabine in previously untreated patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Chemotherapy-naïve patients with locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer were treated with gemcitabine (1,500 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 15), docetaxel (50 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 15) and capecitabine (2,250 mg/m(2), orally in two daily divided doses, on days 1-7 and 15-21). All three drugs were administered in 4-week cycles, in an initial prospective plan of six cycles. The primary end-point was response rate. RESULTS Forty patients were enrolled in the study. At the time of enrollment, 40% of patients had locally advanced and 60% metastatic disease. All patients were evaluable for response and toxicity. On an intent-to-treat analysis, the overall response and disease control rates were 40 and 80%, respectively. The median progression-free survival was 6.0 months, and the median overall survival was 9.0 months. Major grade 3/4 toxicities were neutropenia (17.5%), diarrhea (10%) and hand-foot syndrome (7.5%). There was no treatment-related death. CONCLUSION The combination of gemcitabine with docetaxel and capecitabine is feasible and exhibits satisfactory degree of activity in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, deserving further exploration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Xenidis
- Department of Medical Oncology, University General Hospital of Alexandroupolis, Dragana, 68100 Alexandroupolis, Thrace, Greece
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Smith JP, Bingaman SI, Mauger DT, Harvey HH, Demers LM, Zagon IS. Opioid growth factor improves clinical benefit and survival in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. OPEN ACCESS JOURNAL OF CLINICAL TRIALS 2010; 2010:37-48. [PMID: 20890374 DOI: 10.2147/oajct.s8270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Advanced pancreatic cancer carries the poorest prognosis of all gastrointestinal malignancies. Once the tumor has spread beyond the margins of the pancreas, chemotherapy is the major treatment modality offered to patients; however, chemotherapy does not significantly improve survival. OBJECTIVE: Opioid growth factor (OGF; [Met(5)]-enkephalin) is a natural peptide that has been shown to inhibit growth of pancreatic cancer in cell culture and in nude mice. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of OGF biotherapy on subjects with advanced pancreatic cancer who failed chemotherapy. METHODS: In a prospective phase II open-labeled clinical trial, 24 subjects who failed standard chemotherapy for advanced pancreatic cancer were treated weekly with OGF 250 µg/kg intravenously. Outcomes measured included clinical benefit, tumor response by radiographic imaging, quality of life, and survival. RESULTS: Clinical benefit response was experienced by 53% of OGF-treated patients compared to historical controls of 23.8% and 4.8% for gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), respectively. Of the subjects surviving more than eight weeks, 62% showed either a decrease or stabilization in tumor size by computed tomography. The median survival time for OGF-treated patients was three times that of untreated patients (65.5 versus 21 days, p < 0.001). No adverse effects on hematologic or chemistry parameters were noted, and quality of life surveys suggested improvement with OGF. LIMITATIONS: Measurements other than survival were not allowed in control patients, and clinical benefit comparisons were made to historical controls. CONCLUSION: OGF biotherapy improves the clinical benefit and prolongs survival in patients with pancreatic cancer by stabilizing disease or slowing progression. The effects of OGF did not adversely alter patient quality of life. The use of OGF biotherapy at earlier stages of disease or in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents may further improve the outcome of this malignancy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill P Smith
- Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University, College of Medicine, Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, PA, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Highley M, Griffiths G, Uscinska B, Huddart R, Barber J, Parmar M, Harper P. A Phase II Trial of Continuous 5-Fluorouracil in Recurrent or Metastatic Transitional Cell Carcinoma of the Urinary Tract. Clin Oncol (R Coll Radiol) 2009; 21:394-400. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clon.2009.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2008] [Revised: 12/15/2008] [Accepted: 01/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
16
|
Abstract
Pancreatic carcinoma is one of the most malignant tumors with characteristics of insidious onset, and low surgical curative rate, insensitivity to traditional chemoradiotherapy and poor prognosis. It is found that the adjuvant chemotherapy had held an edge over supporting therapy and the survival was extended. As a representative drug for adjuvant chemotherapy, gemcitabine shows favorable efficacy in comparison with traditional chemotherapy. With some further researches undergoing, a variety of targeted drugs (include cytotoxic drugs or bio-targeted drugs) have brought a new prospect for the adjuvant chemotherapy of pancreatic carcinoma.
Collapse
|
17
|
Guo Q, Chen Y, Zhang B, Kang M, Xie Q, Wu Y. Potentiation of the effect of gemcitabine by emodin in pancreatic cancer is associated with survivin inhibition. Biochem Pharmacol 2009; 77:1674-83. [PMID: 19428321 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2009.02.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 02/21/2009] [Accepted: 02/24/2009] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer is one human malignancy which has chemoresistant behavior to gemcitabine treatment. In this study, we revealed that emodin, an active component from Chinese medicinal herbs, could enhance pancreatic cancer cells apoptosis induced by gemcitabine. Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis gene family, is involved in control of cell division and inhibition of apoptosis and described as a beta-catenin/Tcf/Lef target gene. Western blot and PCR analysis showed that emodin suppressed survivin expression in a dose- and time-dependent manner. We further demonstrated survivin expression could be up-regulated by gemcitabine. Surprisingly, survivin expression induced by gemcitabine could be inhibited in combination with emodin treatment. Moreover, cells treated with gemcitabine and emodin showed a preferential peri-plasmamembrane position of beta-catenin, blocking the translocation of beta-catenin to nucleus induced by gemcitabine. In addition to these in vitro results, we also found that emodin potentiates the antitumor effects of gemcitabine in vivo by down-regulating the expression of survivin and beta-catenin. Taken together, these results suggest that emodin potentiates gemcitabine antitumor activity through suppression of survivin gene in pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingqu Guo
- Department of Surgery, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University College of Medicine, Cancer Institute of Zhejiang University, #88 Jiefang Road, Hangzhou City, 310009, PR China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Bence AK, Crooks PA. The Mechanism of l-Canavanine Cytotoxicity: Arginyl tRNA Synthetase as a Novel Target for Anticancer Drug Discovery. J Enzyme Inhib Med Chem 2008; 18:383-94. [PMID: 14692504 DOI: 10.1080/1475636031000152277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a clear need for agents with novel mechanisms of action to provide new therapeutic approaches for the treatment of pancreatic cancer. Owing to its structural similarity to L-arginine, L-canavanine, the beta-oxa-analog of L-arginine, is a substrate for arginyl tRNA synthetase and is incorporated into nascent proteins in place of L-arginine. Although L-arginine and L-canavanine are structurally similar, the oxyguanidino group of L-canavanine is significantly less basic than the guanidino group of L-arginine. Consequently, L-canavanyl proteins lack the capacity to form crucial ionic interactions, resulting in altered protein structure and function, which leads to cellular death. Since L-canavanine is selectively sequestered by the pancreas, it may be especially useful as an adjuvant therapy in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. This novel mechanism of cytotoxicity forms the basis for the anticancer activity of L-canavanine and thus, arginyl tRNA synthetase may represent a novel target for the development of such therapeutic agents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aimee K Bence
- Division of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 800 Rose Street, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536-0082, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Marti JL, Hochster HS, Hiotis SP, Donahue B, Ryan T, Newman E. Phase I/II Trial of Induction Chemotherapy Followed by Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy and Surgery for Locoregionally Advanced Pancreatic Cancer. Ann Surg Oncol 2008; 15:3521-31. [DOI: 10.1245/s10434-008-0152-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2008] [Revised: 07/25/2008] [Accepted: 08/16/2008] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
|
20
|
COX-2 and NF-KB overexpression is common in pancreatic cancer but does not predict for COX-2 inhibitors activity in combination with gemcitabine and oxaliplatin. Am J Clin Oncol 2007; 30:526-30. [PMID: 17921715 DOI: 10.1097/coc.0b013e318054675c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The attempt to improve therapeutic results in pancreatic carcinoma has recently focused on the emerging role of molecular biology. We investigated the role of COX-2 and NF-KB expression in relation to the use of a COX-2 inhibitor (celecoxib) associated to gemcitabine and oxaliplatin in pancreatic cancer. METHODS Forty-four patients with histologically or cytologically verified, locally advanced unresectable and/or metastatic pancreatic carcinoma were eligible for the study. RESULTS Thirty-three patients (75%) assumed celecoxib for all their treatment period. Treatment was repeated every 2 weeks, until there was evidence of disease progression, patient refusal, or unacceptable toxicity. Efficacy was assessed according to tumor response, clinical benefit, and time-related parameters. Five patients had a partial response, 24 had a stable disease, and 15 had a disease progression, for an overall response rate of 11%. Biochemical response rate based on CA 19.9 levels showed 2 complete and 10 partial responses, whereas 31 patients presented no changes of CA 19.9 levels. COX-2 protein expression was found in 30 tumors, while a moderate or weak/absent expression was present in 10 patients. Sixteen tumors showed a strong expression for NF-KB, 4 a moderate expression, and 5 a weak/absent expression. CONCLUSION The use of a COX-2 inhibitor does not add any valuable activity to a gemcitabine/oxaliplatin combination, even in patients with COX-2 and NF-KB overexpressing tumors.
Collapse
|
21
|
Heinemann V, Labianca R, Hinke A, Louvet C. Increased survival using platinum analog combined with gemcitabine as compared to single-agent gemcitabine in advanced pancreatic cancer: pooled analysis of two randomized trials, the GERCOR/GISCAD intergroup study and a German multicenter study. Ann Oncol 2007; 18:1652-9. [PMID: 17660491 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdm283] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim was to evaluate the efficacy of gemcitabine combined with a platinum agent compared to single-agent gemcitabine in a pooled analysis of two randomized trials. METHODS The French Multidisciplinary Clinical Research Group (GERCOR)/Italian Group for the Study of Gastrointestinal Tract Cancer (GISCAD) intergroup study comparing gemcitabine plus oxaliplatin to gemcitabine and a German multicenter trial comparing gemcitabine plus cisplatin versus gemcitabine were included in a pooled analysis based on individual patient data. RESULTS Among 503 evaluable patients, 252 received gemcitabine plus a platinum analog (GP), while 251 patients were treated with gemcitabine alone. For progression-free survival (PFS), the pooled univariate analysis indicated a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.75 (P = 0.0030) in favour of the GP combination. The benefit from the GP combination was greatest in the subgroup of patients with performance status (PS) = 0 (HR = 0.64; P = 0.013). Also overall survival was significantly superior in patients receiving the GP combination (HR = 0.81; P = 0.031). Again, patients with PS = 0 appeared to have a greater benefit from treatment intensification (HR = 0.72; P = 0.063). CONCLUSION The pooled analysis of the GERCOR/GISCAD intergroup study and the German multicenter study indicates that the combination of gemcitabine with a platinum analog such as oxaliplatin or cisplatin significantly improves progression-free survival and overall survival as compared to single-agent gemcitabine in advanced pancreatic cancer. The benefit seems to prevail in patients with a good performance status.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Heinemann
- Medical Clinic III, Klinikum Grosshadern, Munich, Germany.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Jacob DA, Bahra M, Langrehr JM, Boas-Knoop S, Stefaniak R, Davis J, Schumacher G, Lippert S, Neumann UP. Combination therapy of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor 3-aminobenzamide and gemcitabine shows strong antitumor activity in pancreatic cancer cells. J Gastroenterol Hepatol 2007; 22:738-48. [PMID: 17444865 DOI: 10.1111/j.1440-1746.2006.04496.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors such as 3-aminobenzamide (3-ABA) enhance the in vitro cytotoxicity of DNA mono-functional alkylating agents such as radiation or chemotherapeutic agents. The aim of this study was to test an approach combining the PARP inhibitor 3-ABA with standard gemcitabine therapy in human pancreatic cancer cells. METHODS Cell viability was determined by proliferation assay (XTT). Cell-cycle analysis (FACS), ELISA (M30 Apoptosense), Western blot for caspase 8 and PARP, and electron microscopy were used to identify apoptosis. Tumor growth and survival was assessed in nude mice by subcutaneously injected Capan-1 cells. In addition, Ki67 staining was performed on tumors for cell proliferation and in vivo apoptosis induction was measured by TUNEL assay and ELISA. RESULTS Combination therapy of gemcitabine and 3-ABA suppressed tumor cell growth more than gemcitabine alone in XTT, FACS and ELISA analysis. CONCLUSION This in vivo study demonstrated a significantly reduced tumor weight and increased survival up to 40 days after cell inoculation with combination therapy compared to animals treated with PBS, gemcitabine or 3-ABA alone. Furthermore, TUNEL assay revealed a significant apoptosis induction and reduced proliferation in the combination group.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dietmar A Jacob
- Department of General, Visceral and Transplant Surgery, Charité Campus Virchow-Clinic, Humboldt University of Berlin, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
23
|
Icli F, Akbulut H, Utkan G, Yalcin B, Dincol D, Isikdogan A, Demirkazik A, Onur H, Cay F, Büyükcelik A. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) increases the efficacy of cisplatinum plus gemcitabine combination in advanced pancreatic cancer. J Surg Oncol 2007; 95:507-12. [PMID: 17192920 DOI: 10.1002/jso.20728] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In this non-randomized study we aimed to assess the efficacy of the addition of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) to gemcitabine (GEM) plus cisplatinum (CDDP) combination chemotherapy on survival by prevention of thromboembolic complications in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). PATIENTS AND METHODS Between November 1999 and February 2004, 69 consecutive patients with APC were treated with GEM (800 mg/m2, day 1, day 8) plus CDDP (35 mg/m2, day 1, day 8) every 21 days +/-LMWH (nadroparine calcium, 2,850 IU/day until disease progression). Ten out of 35 patients in LMWH group and 10 out of 34 patients in chemotherapy alone group had primary inoperable locally advanced disease and the rest of the patients had metastatic disease. RESULTS Total response rate was 58.8% (11.7% CR) for the patients treated with LMWH and 12.1% for those treated without LMWH (P = 0.0001). LMWH group had a better median time to progression (TTP) and survival when compared to control group (7.3 vs. 4.0 months, P = 0.0001; 13.0 vs. 5.5 months, P = 0.0001). The toxicity was similar and acceptable in both groups. CONCLUSION Addition of LMWH to GEM plus CDDP combination significantly improved the response and survival in patients with APC and the current schedule deserves to be tested in phase III trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fikri Icli
- Department of Medical Oncology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Heinemann V, Quietzsch D, Gieseler F, Gonnermann M, Schönekäs H, Rost A, Neuhaus H, Haag C, Clemens M, Heinrich B, Vehling-Kaiser U, Fuchs M, Fleckenstein D, Gesierich W, Uthgenannt D, Einsele H, Holstege A, Hinke A, Schalhorn A, Wilkowski R. Randomized phase III trial of gemcitabine plus cisplatin compared with gemcitabine alone in advanced pancreatic cancer. J Clin Oncol 2006; 24:3946-52. [PMID: 16921047 DOI: 10.1200/jco.2005.05.1490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 485] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare the effectiveness and tolerability of gemcitabine plus cisplatin with single-agent gemcitabine as first-line chemotherapy for locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with advanced adenocarcinoma of the pancreas were randomly assigned to receive either gemcitabine 1,000 mg/m2 and cisplatin 50 mg/m2 given on days 1 and 15 of a 4-week cycle (GemCis arm) or gemcitabine alone at a dose of 1,000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, and 15 of a 4-week regimen (Gem arm). The primary end point was overall survival; secondary end points were progression-free survival, response rate, safety, and quality of life. RESULTS One hundred ninety-five patients were enrolled and showed baseline characteristics well balanced between treatment arms. Combination treatment in the GemCis arm was associated with a prolonged median progression-free survival (5.3 months v 3.1 months; hazard ratio [HR] = 0.75; P = .053). Also, median overall survival was superior for patients treated in the GemCis arm as compared with the Gem arm (7.5 v 6.0 months), an advantage which did not, however, reach statistical significance (HR = 0.80; P = .15). Tumor response rates were comparable between treatment arms (10.2% v 8.2%). The rate of stable disease was, however, greater in the combination arm (60.2% v 40.2%; P < .001). Grade 3 to 4 hematologic toxicity did not exceed 15% in both treatment arms. CONCLUSION These results support the efficacy and safety of an every-2-weeks treatment with gemcitabine plus cisplatin. Median overall survival and progression-free survival were more favorable in the combination arm as compared with gemcitabine alone, although the difference did not attain statistical significance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Volker Heinemann
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik III, Klinikum Grosshadern, Munich, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Di Costanzo F, Carlini P, Doni L, Massidda B, Mattioli R, Iop A, Barletta E, Moscetti L, Recchia F, Tralongo P, Gasperoni S. Gemcitabine with or without continuous infusion 5-FU in advanced pancreatic cancer: a randomised phase II trial of the Italian oncology group for clinical research (GOIRC). Br J Cancer 2005; 93:185-9. [PMID: 15986036 PMCID: PMC2361554 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6602640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was performed to determine the activity of adding continuous infusion (CI) of 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) to gemcitabine (GEM) vs GEM alone in advanced pancreatic cancer (APC). In all, 94 chemo-naïve patients with APC were randomised to receive GEM alone (arm A: 1000 mg m−2 per week for 7 weeks followed by a 2 week rest period, then weekly for 3 consecutive weeks out of every 4 weeks) or in combination with CI 5-FU (arm B: CI 5-FU 200 mg m−2 day−1 for 6 weeks followed by a 2 week rest period, then for 3 weeks every 4 weeks). Overall response rate (RR) was the primary end point and criteria for decision were planned according to the Simon's optimal two-stage design. The overall RR was 8% (arm A) and 11% (arm B) (95% confidence interval: 0.5–16% and 2–22%), respectively, and stable disease was 29 and 28%. The median duration of RR was 34 weeks (range 25–101 weeks) for GEM and 26 weeks (range 16–46 weeks) for the combination. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 14 weeks (range 2–65 weeks) and 18 weeks (range 4–51 weeks), respectively. The median overall survival (OS) was 31 weeks (range 1–101 weeks) and 30 weeks (1–101 weeks). Toxicity was mild in both arms. This study does not show promising activity in terms of RR, PFS and OS for the double combination arm in APC.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- F Di Costanzo
- U.O di Oncologia Medica, Azienda Ospedaliera Careggi, Via Pieraccini 17, Florence, Italy.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Xiros N, Papacostas P, Economopoulos T, Samelis G, Efstathiou E, Kastritis E, Kalofonos H, Onyenadum A, Skarlos D, Bamias A, Gogas H, Bafaloukos D, Samantas E, Kosmidis P. Carboplatin plus gemcitabine in patients with inoperable or metastatic pancreatic cancer: a phase II multicenter study by the Hellenic Cooperative Oncology Group. Ann Oncol 2005; 16:773-9. [PMID: 15802284 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdi160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the present phase II multicenter study, we assessed the efficacy and tolerability of the combination of gemcitabine and carboplatin in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with previously untreated, locally advanced or metastatic pancreatic cancer were treated with gemcitabine 800 mg/m(2) on days 1 and 8 and carboplatin at an AUC of 4 on day 8 of a 3-week cycle, for a total of six cycles. Primary end points were response rate and clinical benefit; secondary end points were, survival, time to progression (TTP) and toxicity. RESULTS A total of 50 patients were enrolled in the study, 47 of whom were eligible for treatment. The median age was 63 years (range 34-76) and the median Karnofsky performance status (PS) was 80%. Patients received a median of six cycles (range 1-11). Among 35 patients evaluable for response, eight (17%) achieved partial response; 15 (32%) and 12 (25%) patients had stable and progressive disease, respectively. The median overall survival was 7.4 months; the median TTP was 4.4 months and the 1-year survival was 28%. The observed clinical benefit response was remarkable. After the second cycle of chemotherapy, 21 of 31 (68%) patients experienced pain improvement and reduced analgesic consumption. At the same time, 35% and 56% of our patients significantly improved their Karnofsky PS and weight, respectively. Overall, the treatment was well tolerated. The most common grade 3-4 toxicities were hematological, including 8% anemia, 6% neutropenia and 13% thrombocytopenia. CONCLUSIONS The combination of gemcitabine plus carboplatin is a moderately active treatment for patients with locally advanced and metastatic pancreatic cancer. This regimen has an acceptable toxicity profile and provides a significant clinical benefit, and hence warrants further investigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Xiros
- Second Department of Internal Medicine, Propaedeutic and Research Institute, University General Hospital 'Attikon', University of Athens, Greece.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Fogelman DR, Chen J, Chabot JA, Allendorf JD, Schrope BA, Ennis RD, Schreibman SM, Fine RL. The evolution of adjuvant and neoadjuvant chemotherapy and radiation for advanced pancreatic cancer: from 5-fluorouracil to GTX. Surg Oncol Clin N Am 2004; 13:711-35, x. [PMID: 15350944 DOI: 10.1016/j.soc.2004.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This article reviews the relevant literature and reports on The Columbia University Medical Center experience with chemoradiation for pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David R Fogelman
- Experimental Therapeutics Program, Division of Medical Oncology, Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, 650 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
28
|
Frucht H, Stevens PD, Fogelman DR, Verna EC, Chen J, Chabot JA, Fine RL. Advances in the Genetic Screening, Work-up, and Treatment of Pancreatic Cancer. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2004; 7:343-354. [PMID: 15345205 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-004-0047-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Familiarity with the updated results in genetic screening and work-up presented here is essential to early diagnosis and possible cure. In the metastatic setting, we most frequently begin with the GTX regimen, consisting of Gemcitabine, Taxotere, and Xeloda. The regimen is based on our laboratory data demonstrating a synergistic increase in cell killing of pancreatic cancer cell lines. The combination takes advantage of the selective cell cycle effects of each of the three drugs. In our initial experience, we have seen a response rate of 40% at metastatic sites and 31% at the primary site after nine cycles of GTX. We are now conducting a formal phase II protocol to confirm these results. The median survival of this group of patients (at least 10.4 months) is as long as, or longer than other currently used regimens. In those patients who do not tolerate GTX or progress despite the regimen, we have found that a regimen of the same three drugs, administered on a different schedule, can produce responses. In the neoadjuvant (unresectable) setting, we treat with GTX initially and then follow with radiation; gemcitabine is used as a radiosensitizer during this treatment. An aggressive surgical approach with a team of surgeons were able to resect for cure 12 of the 16 patients who were initially unresectable; one year survival of these 12 was 100%; 2 year survival was 50%. Future work in this disease should focus on targeted agents such as bevacizumab.
Collapse
|
29
|
Wilkowski R, Thoma M, Schauer R, Wagner A, Heinemann V. Effect of chemoradiotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin on locoregional control in patients with primary inoperable pancreatic cancer. World J Surg 2004; 28:1011-8. [PMID: 15573257 DOI: 10.1007/s00268-004-7338-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Gemcitabine sensitizes tumor cells to radiation and cisplatin and thereby enhances the cytotoxic effect of gemcitabine. Here we report the efficacy and toxicity of concurrent chemoradiation with gemcitabine and cisplatin in the treatment of patients with locally advanced, unresectable pancreatic cancer. A total of 47 patients (29 men, 18 women; median age 61 years) with histologically proven advanced pancreatic carcinoma were included in the study. They underwent chemotherapy with gemcitabine 300 mg/m2 and cisplatin 30 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 22, and 29; concurrent radiation (45-50 Gy) was applied to the tumor and regional lymph nodes (1.8-2.0 Gy/fraction 5 days per week). Subsequent to chemoradiotherapy, treatment was continued with more two cycles of gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2) and cisplatin (50 mg/m2) applied on days 1 and 15 of a 4-week cycle. After completion of chemoradiotherapy, 9 patients (19.1%) achieved a complete response and 23 patients (48.9%) a partial response, for an overall response rate of 68%. The lesions were considered resectable in 27 patients, and 25 of the 27 patients underwent laparotomy. The other 20 patients underwent a definitive pancreatic resection. Altogether, 13 patients had negative surgical margins. With a median follow-up of 25.7 months (range 12.7-38.7 months) after completion of chemoradiation, distant metastasis had occurred in 23 patients and local recurrence in only 4 of 44 patients (8.5%). the median progression-free survival was 7.8 months (range 6.2-9.4 months). The median survival amounted to 10.7 months (range 8.4-13.0 months) for all patients, whereas it was prolonged to 24.2 months (range 6.8-41.7 months) for those undergoing R0 resection. The main toxicities associated with chemoradiation included grade 3/4 leukopenia (68% of patients) and thrombocytopenia (61%). Episodes of cholangitis were observed in 11 patients. We concluded that gemcitabine and cisplatin can safely be combined with external beam radiation. This preoperative treatment approach is highly effective and appears to improve survival in patients whose tumors are rendered completely resectable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Wilkowski
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Klinikum Grosshadern der LMU München, Marchioninistrasse 15, 81377, München, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Wilkowski R, Thoma M, Dühmke E, Rau HG, Heinemann V. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin after incomplete (R1) resection of locally advanced pancreatic carcinoma. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 2004; 58:768-72. [PMID: 14967432 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2003.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2003] [Revised: 07/28/2003] [Accepted: 07/29/2003] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyze, in a prospective clinical trial, the efficacy and toxicity of concurrent radiotherapy and chemotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin in patients with incompletely (R1) resected pancreatic cancer. METHODS AND MATERIALS Between 2000 and 2002, a total of 30 pancreatic cancer patients were treated. Radiotherapy was performed in 15 patients up to a total dose of 45.0 Gy. An additional 15 patients received a total dose of 50.0 Gy according to the International Commission on Radiation Units and Measurements (ICRU) Report 50 reference point (equivalent to 45.0 Gy at the isodose, including 90% covering the former tumor area and local lymph nodes). Concurrent with radiotherapy, four applications of gemcitabine (300 mg/m(2)) and cisplatin (30 mg/m(2)) were administered. After chemoradiotherapy, patients received four additional courses of gemcitabine (1000 mg/m(2)) and cisplatin (50 mg/m(2)) on Days 1 and 15 in a 4-week cycle. RESULTS The median progression-free survival was 10.6 months, and the median overall survival was 22.8 months. The 1-, 2-, and 3-year survival rate was 81%, 43%, and 26%, respectively. After completion of chemoradiotherapy, distant metastasis was observed in 14 patients during a median follow-up of 15.0 months (range, 4.6-30.0). One patient developed both local recurrence and distant metastases. Hematologic toxicities were the most prominent side effects (leukopenia Grade 3 and 4 in 53% and 7% and thrombocytopenia Grade 3 and 4 in 33% and 7% of patients, respectively). Grade 3 and 4 GI toxicity was not observed. CONCLUSION Postoperative chemoradiotherapy with gemcitabine and cisplatin after incomplete (R1) resection of pancreatic carcinoma is safe and feasible. A prolonged progression-free survival suggests high local efficacy, translating into a benefit of overall survival. On the basis of the favorable outcome of patients receiving gemcitabine/cisplatin-based chemoradiotherapy, testing this combined treatment strategy appears warranted in a comparative trial.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Wilkowski
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Universität München, München, Germany.
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
31
|
Novarino A, Chiappino I, Bertelli GF, Heouaine A, Ritorto G, Addeo A, Bellone G, Merlano M, Bertetto O. Phase II study of cisplatin, gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil in advanced pancreatic cancer. Ann Oncol 2004; 15:474-7. [PMID: 14998851 DOI: 10.1093/annonc/mdh106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to determine the activity of the combination of cisplatin, gemcitabine and 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) as therapy for metastatic or locally advanced inoperable pancreatic adenocarcinoma. PATIENTS AND METHODS Patients with histologically proven advanced or metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma received first-line chemotherapy comprising cisplatin (20 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 and 36), gemcitabine (1000 mg/m2 on days 1, 8, 29 and 36) and 5-FU (200 mg/m2 as continuous infusion on days 1-42) every 56 days. RESULTS A total of 34 patients were studied. Eighty courses were administered (median two courses per patient). Among 32 patients evaluable for response, two patients had a complete response and four a partial response for an overall response rate of 19% (95% confidence interval 7% to 36%). Thirteen patients had stable disease (40%) and 13 progressed. Median progression-free survival was 4.7 months, median survival 9.0 months and 26% of patients achieved 1-year survival. Ten of 25 patients (40%) with pain at presentation had a sustained reduction of analgesic consumption. The principal grade 3/4 toxicities were neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia and mucositis, occurring in 24%, 21%, 9% and 3% of patients. CONCLUSION This schedule seems well tolerated and active in pancreatic cancer and worthwhile of further evaluation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Novarino
- Oncologia Medica, Centro Oncologico Ematologico Subalpino, Azienda Ospedaliera Molinette, Torino, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
32
|
Smith JP, Conter RL, Bingaman SI, Harvey HA, Mauger DT, Ahmad M, Demers LM, Stanley WB, McLaughlin PJ, Zagon IS. Treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer with opioid growth factor: phase I. Anticancer Drugs 2004; 15:203-9. [PMID: 15014352 DOI: 10.1097/00001813-200403000-00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Opioid growth factor (OGF) is an endogenous pentapeptide that inhibits growth of human pancreatic cancer cells in culture, as well as xenografts in nude mice. To establish the maximum tolerated dose (MTD), and determine safety and toxicity of OGF, a phase I trial was performed in patients with advanced unresectable pancreatic cancer. Patients with unresectable pancreatic adenocarcinoma were treated with escalating doses of OGF for 30 min i.v. to determine the MTD. The s.c. route of administration also was evaluated. Once the MTD was established, a group of patients was treated chronically, and monitored for safety and toxicity. Hypotension was the dose-limiting toxicity, resulting in a MTD of 250 microg/kg i.v. Due to limited solubility of OGF in small volumes, a maximum dose of 50 microg/kg twice daily was determined by the s.c. route of administration. No adverse events were reported for oxygen saturation, cardiac rhythm, laboratory values or neurological status in either the acute or chronic parts of the study with the i.v. or s.c. routes. During the chronic i.v. phase, two subjects had resolution of liver metastases and one showed regression of the pancreatic tumor. Mean survival from the time of diagnosis was 8.7 months (range 2-23 months) in the i.v. group and 9.5 months (range 1-18 months) in the s.c. group. We conclude that OGF can be safely administered to patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Further studies are needed to determine the efficacy of OGF alone or in combination with present modes of therapy for the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jill P Smith
- Department of Medicine, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
33
|
Ulrich-Pur H, Raderer M, Verena Kornek G, Schüll B, Schmid K, Haider K, Kwasny W, Depisch D, Schneeweiss B, Lang F, Scheithauer W. Irinotecan plus raltitrexed vs raltitrexed alone in patients with gemcitabine-pretreated advanced pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Br J Cancer 2003; 88:1180-4. [PMID: 12698181 PMCID: PMC2747555 DOI: 10.1038/sj.bjc.6600883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
There is no established second-line treatment for advanced pancreatic cancer after gemcitabine failure. In view of the urgent need for such therapy, and since preclinical and phase I clinical data suggest an encouraging, potentially synergistic activity between raltitrexed and irinotecan, the present randomised phase II study was initiated. A total of 38 patients with metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma, who progressed while receiving or within 6 months after discontinuation of palliative first-line chemotherapy with gemcitabine, were enrolled in this study. They were randomised to 3-weekly courses of raltitrexed 3 mg x m(-2) on day 1 (arm A) or irinotecan 200 mg x m(-2) on day 1 plus raltitrexed 3 mg x m(-2) on day 2 (arm B). The primary study end point was objective response, secondary end points included progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS), as well as clinical benefit response in symptomatic patients (n=28). In the combination arm, the IRC-confirmed objective response rate was 16% (three out of 19 patients had a partial remission; 95% CI, 3-40%), which was clearly superior to that in the comparator/control arm with raltitrexed alone, in which no response was obtained. Therefore, the trial was already stopped at the first stage of accrual. Also, the secondary study end points, median PFS (2.5 vs 4.0 months), OS (4.3 vs 6.5 months), and clinical benefit response (8 vs 29%) were superior in the combination arm. The objective and subjective benefits of raltitrexed+irinotecan were not negated by severe, clinically relevant treatment-related toxicities: gastrointestinal symptoms (42 vs 68%), partial alopecia (0 vs 42%), and cholinergic syndrome (0 vs 21%) were more commonly noted in arm B; however, grade 3 adverse events occurred in only three patients in both treatment groups. Our data indicate that combined raltitrexed+irinotecan seems to be an effective salvage regimen in patients with gemcitabine-pretreated pancreatic cancer. The superior response activity, PFS and OS (when compared to raltitrexed), as well as its tolerability and ease of administration suggest that future trials with this combination are warranted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Ulrich-Pur
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - M Raderer
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - G Verena Kornek
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - B Schüll
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - K Schmid
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - K Haider
- Department of Surgery, Wr.Neustadt General Hospital, Corvinusring 3-5, A-2700 Wr.Neustadt, Austria
| | - W Kwasny
- Department of Surgery, Wr.Neustadt General Hospital, Corvinusring 3-5, A-2700 Wr.Neustadt, Austria
| | - D Depisch
- Department of Surgery, Wr.Neustadt General Hospital, Corvinusring 3-5, A-2700 Wr.Neustadt, Austria
| | - B Schneeweiss
- Department of Internal Medicine, Kirchdorf General Hospital, Hausmanningerstrasse 8, A-4560 Kirchdorf a.d.Krems, Austria
| | - F Lang
- Department of Surgery, Neunkirchen General Hospital, Peischingerstrasse 19, A.2024 Neunkirchen, Austria
| | - W Scheithauer
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria
- Division of Clinical Oncology, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, A-1090 Vienna, Austria. E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|