Treosulfan

Treosulfan.svg

Treosulfan is a chemotherapy agent used primarily in the treatment of ovarian cancer. It is an alkylating agent that works by interfering with the DNA replication process in cancer cells, leading to cell death. Treosulfan is also being investigated for its potential use in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Mechanism of Action

Treosulfan is a prodrug that is converted in the body to a bifunctional alkylating agent. It forms cross-links in DNA, which prevents the cancer cells from dividing and leads to apoptosis. This mechanism is similar to other alkylating agents like cyclophosphamide and melphalan.

Clinical Uses

Treosulfan is primarily used in the treatment of ovarian cancer, particularly in patients who have not responded to other treatments. It is also being studied for use in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation as a conditioning agent. This involves preparing the patient's body to receive new stem cells by eliminating existing bone marrow cells.

Administration and Dosage

Treosulfan is usually administered intravenously. The dosage and schedule depend on the type and stage of cancer being treated, as well as the patient's overall health and response to the medication. It is often given in combination with other chemotherapy drugs.

Side Effects

Common side effects of treosulfan include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Myelosuppression (decreased production of blood cells)
• Alopecia (hair loss)
• Fatigue

More severe side effects can include:

• Infections due to low white blood cell counts
• Bleeding due to low platelet counts
• Anemia due to low red blood cell counts

Research and Development

Treosulfan is currently being studied in various clinical trials to evaluate its efficacy and safety in different types of cancer and in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. Researchers are also investigating its potential use in combination with other chemotherapy agents and targeted therapies.

See Also

• Ovarian cancer
• Chemotherapy
• Alkylating agent
• Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
• Cyclophosphamide
• Melphalan

External Links

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