Interferon and interferon inducers in the treatment of malignancies.
The mechanism of the antitumor action of polyinosinic-polycytidylic acid is probably multifaceted. The compound induces the synthesis of interferon, and interferon probably is active against some tumors. Poly I:poly C alters protein and RNA synthesis in tissue culture. It specifically inhibits such macromolecule synthesis in tumors in vivo, while having less inhibitory action on synthesis in normal organs, or it may actually enhance. Finally, poly I:poly C strongly enhances graft vs. host rejection mechanisms, which may play a role in the rejection of some tumors.
Levy
H B
HB
Laboratory of Viral Diseases, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland 20014.
Riley
F
F
Margolis
S
S