Single intratumoral injection of long-acting benzyl ester of D-penicillamine inhibits the growth of melanoma tumor in mice.

Author(s): Chvapil M, Dorr R

Affiliation(s): Department of Surgery and Cancer Center, School of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85718, USA. mchvapil@hotmail.com

Publication date & source: 2005-08, Anticancer Drugs., 16(7):757-62.

Publication type:

Using a murine model of melanoma we tested the effect of D-penicillamine administered in repetitive, daily injections, or as a single large dose injected either in saline or in a biodegradable polymer. We also studied the effect of a single intratumoral injection of benzyl-ester-D-penicillamine on the growth of the tumor. Daily injections of the drug or its administration in a polymer or benzyl-ester of D-penicillamine were all significantly inhibitory. The inhibitory effect manifested 4-5 days after injection. The inhibition lasted 8-10 days. There was no evidence of local or systemic toxicity and no changes in body weight. Several possible mechanisms for the inhibitory effect are presented.