The research proposed in this grant is directed toward the use of both radioprotective and radiosensitizing drugs in radiation therapy. Protective drugs include WR-2721, and newer more effective drugs of this type, while sensitizing drugs, in the present context, includes both nitroimidazoles and certain alkylating agents. To exploit the combinations of these agents we are proposing to (1) determine optimum timing between the injection of the nitroimidazole and the WR-2721 so that tumor sensitization is maximum while toxicity and pharmacologic interactions are minimized; (2) determine the relationship between the rate of WR-2721 infusion and toxicity or radioprotection, such that our clinical efforts can be optimized; (3) to investigate the biochemical nature of the membrane restriction which limits the absorption of hydrophilic drugs, such as WR-2721; and (4) to identify agents which are quantitatively and/or qualitatively superior to WR-2721 in cancer therapy.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01CA038873-03
Application #
3177263
Study Section
Radiation Study Section (RAD)
Project Start
1984-08-01
Project End
1988-07-31
Budget Start
1986-08-01
Budget End
1988-07-31
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1986
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Pennsylvania
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
042250712
City
Philadelphia
State
PA
Country
United States
Zip Code
19104
Biaglow, J E; Varnes, M E; Epp, E R et al. (1988) Antioxidant and redox enzymes in radioprotection. Pharmacol Ther 39:275-86
Davis, M E; Conger, A D; Sodicoff, M (1987) Transplacental uptake of WR 2721 by the rat embryo. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys 13:575-8
Sodicoff, M; Ziskin, M C; Conger, A D (1986) Effect of WR-2721 on fetal development in the rat. Radiat Res 107:49-57
Vasanthi, L G; Bakanauskas, V J; Conger, A D (1986) Early changes accompanying development of adriamycin resistance in spheroids of a mouse mammary carcinoma line. Anticancer Res 6:567-72
Conger, A D; Sodicoff, M; Samel, A (1985) Comparison of cAMP with other radioprotectors against chronic damage to the rat parotid gland. Radiat Res 102:99-105