Oligo-branched peptides for tumor targeting: from magic bullets to magic forks.
BACKGROUND
Selective targeting of tumor cells is the final goal of research and drug discovery for cancer diagnosis, imaging and therapy. After the invention of hybridoma technology, the concept of magic bullet was introduced into the field of oncology, referring to selective killing of tumor cells, by specific antibodies. More recently, small molecules and peptides have also been proposed as selective targeting agents.


OBJECTIVE
We analyze the state of the art of tumor-selective agents that are presently available and tested in clinical settings. A novel approach based on 'armed' oligo-branched peptides as tumor targeting agents, is discussed and compared with existing tumor-selective therapies mediated by antibodies, small molecules or monomeric peptides.


CONCLUSIONS
Oligo-branched peptides could be novel drugs that combine the advantages of antibodies and small molecules.
Falciani
Chiara
C
University of Siena, Department of Molecular Biology, Via Fiorentina 1, 53100 Siena, Italy.
Pini
Alessandro
A
Bracci
Luisa
L
D006801:Humans; D009369:Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D009842:Oligopeptides / Q000494:pharmacology*
D009842:Oligopeptides