Ranpirnase--an antitumour ribonuclease: its potential role in malignant mesothelioma.
Ranpirnase (Onconase) is a novel cytotoxic ribonuclease. In clinical development as a single agent in patients with malignant mesothelioma (MM), at 480 microg/m2 intravenously weekly, analysis of survival indicated prolonged periods of stable disease in Phase II trials and a potential survival benefit, compared with doxorubicin, in a small unpublished Phase III trial. In all clinical studies it has generally demonstrated a favourable safety profile except for easily controlled allergic reactions and dose modifications for renal impairment. Standard first-line treatment for MM has recently been established with an antifolate and cisplatin. At present, a Phase III trial of doxorubicin with or without ranpirnase is nearing completion in MM patients without prior chemotherapy or one prior chemotherapy regimen.
Pavlakis
Nick
N
Royal North Shore Hospital, Department of Medical Oncology, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia. pavlakis@med.usyd.edu.au
Vogelzang
Nicholas J
NJ
D000818:Animals; D000970:Antineoplastic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D015507:Drugs, Investigational / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D006801:Humans; D008654:Mesothelioma / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000201:enzymology; D012260:Ribonucleases / Q000627:therapeutic use*
D000970:Antineoplastic Agents; D015507:Drugs, Investigational; D012260:Ribonucleases; C058703:ranpirnase