Thalidomide and lenalidomide: Mechanism-based potential drug combinations.

Author(s): Vallet S, Palumbo A, Raje N, Boccadoro M, Anderson KC

Affiliation(s): Division of Hematology and Oncology, Cancer Center, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA. svallet@partners.org

Publication date & source: 2008-07, Leuk Lymphoma., 49(7):1238-45.

Publication type: Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Review

Thalidomide and its analogue lenalidomide are potent anti-inflammatory, anti-angiogenic and immunomodulatory drugs, successfully used for the treatment of hematological cancers, in particular multiple myeloma (MM). Both drugs reveal a dual mechanism of action: they target tumour cells by direct cytotoxicity and, indirectly, by interfering with several components of the bone marrow microenvironment. Lenalidomide and thalidomide are versatile drugs with a broad range of activities that potentiate the anti-MM effects of conventional and novel agents. Here, we review the mechanism of action of these drugs, providing a rationale for combination studies in order to improve patient outcome and reduce side effects.