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periods of stable disease in Phase II trials and a potential survival benefit, compared with doxorubicin, in a small unpublished Phase III trial.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.
Royal North Shore Hospital, Department of Medical Oncology, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia. pavlakis@med.usyd.edu.au
Nick
N
Pavlakis
Nicholas J
NJ
Vogelzang
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