Abstract
The DNA topoisomerases I and II are the target of several clinically important antineoplastic agents which produce DNA cleavage by stabilization of the covalent DNA-protein bond with resultant cell death after DNA synthesis is attempted. Depletion of the target topoisomerase and reciprocal changes in the other occur with drug treatment. Purpose and methods: To develop empiric treatment regimens of combinations and sequences of agents directed against topoisomerase I (irinotecan/CPT-11) and II (etoposide and doxorubicin), in vivo studies were performed in mice bearing the EMT-6 mammary tumor to assess efficacy, host tolerance and the resultant biochemical changes in topoisomerase mRNA and protein. Results: At 24 h after therapy, depletion of the target topoisomerase mRNA and protein with reciprocal increases in the alternate topoisomerase mRNA and, to a lesser extent, protein were noted. No therapeutic antagonism was found with any combination or sequence of agents, and therapeutic antagonism was noted with concurrent irinotecan/etoposide and sequential doxorubicin/irinotecan. Depletion of target topoisomerases by combined therapy beyond a threshold necessary for therapeutic efficacy produced no additional benefit. Conclusions: Antineoplastic therapy with combinations of topoisomerase I and II agents is feasible and may produce therapeutic synergy. The appropriate sequence may depend on the particular agents used. The rationale for such therapy, that topoisomerases I and II may have reciprocal and compensatory interactions, is supported by the biochemical data.
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Received: 8 September 1997 / Accepted: 15 January 1998
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Eder, J., Chan, V., Wong, J. et al. Sequence effect of irinotecan (CPT-11) and topoisomerase II inhibitors in vivo. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 42, 327–335 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1007/s002800050825
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s002800050825