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Biomedical subjects

M Marty

Publications and source records attributed to M Marty.

225 records · Page 13Linked to original sources

[Application of technics for the hybridization between nucleic acids in Oncornavirus research].

The RNA-dependent DNA polymerase of oncornaviruses is a very useful tool for synthesizing DNAs complementary to the viral genomes. These probes have been successfully utilized during the last years to detect viral sequences in the DNA or RNA of virus producing or non-producing cells. The results obtained at the present time lead to a better understanding of the molecular events of virus replication and transformation by oncornaviruses. The same approach has been used to look for the presence of virus-like nucleotide sequences in various human cancers. Although promising results have been obtained, they do not establish that oncornaviruses are directly implicated in etiology of human cancers.

Animals↗

[Pharmacokinetics use in anti-cancer therapy (author's transl)].

Dynamic studies of anti-neoplasic agents provide a mathematical expression of various biological steps. High specific technics of dosage make possible the measurements of the drugs and their metabolites. Pharmacokinetics provides a new approach to three fundamental aspects in oncology: drug toxicity, relationship between drug schedule and response in each individual, drug resistance to anticancer drugs. Rational therapeutic approaches are made possible, as it was shown by the use of high dose of methotrexate.

Animals↗

[Hodgkin's disease. Residual histologically stable masses after chemotherapy].

In 4 patients with Hodgkin's disease treated with chemotherapy persistent residual masses, remarkable by their initial volume in 3 cases, were surgically removed. Histological examination showed that the masses were histologically stable and non-evolutive. The incidence of residual masses is discussed with a review of the literature. These masses, which should not be confused with therapeutic failures, constitute a striking example of the special place occupied by surgery in certain forms of Hodgkin's disease.

Adult↗

[Current advances in cancer immunotherapy (author's transl)].

Immunotherapy is still considered as an important therapeutic method in oncology. Experimental basis do exist which support the individualization of several distinct conditions of immunomodulation, some of them being associated with a therapeutic benefit. Numerous immunomodulation molecules or derivatives are now available for clinical investigations. However, effects of immunomodulators on the immune systems which depend on several unknown factors are actually not always fairly correlated with antitumoral effects. Clinical trials are therefore needed in order to demonstrate that immunotherapy remains a valuable antitumoral treatment. The authors review here the available data obtained from recent clinical studies in man. They attempt to establish the limits of immunotherapy as well as its future possibilities.

BCG Vaccine↗

[Note for evaluation of anticancer agents in man].

The working group (Giens 1996) discussed the (CPMP) note providing guidance for the clinical investigation of anticancer agents and in particular of cytotoxic agents. In Phase I trials, the methodology used relies on the assumption that active and toxic dosages will be closed (i.e. low therapeutic index) studies in normal volunteers are not required. the primary objective is the determination of the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) taking into account any corrective measure and/or prior cytotoxic chemotherapy. Characterization of frequent side-effects and of their dose relationship has to be assessed as well as the qualitative (target organ) and quantitative (predictability, extent, ...) toxicity of the drug. A recommended dose for Phase II trials has to be proposed. Phase II trials are characterized by the investigation of antitumour activity in patients with specific tumour types. Patient population (risk factors) should be clearly defined and the number of patients sufficient to meet the study objectives. Evaluation of toxicity and responses have to be documented according to international standards. Phase III trials are disease-oriented and are comparative in nature, and should allow for the full evaluation (including establishment of a treatment regimen) of the active agent selected at the end of the Phase II study. The primary endpoints are disease-free survival, overall survival and response rate. Several problem areas in the design of clinical trials have been reviewed.

Antineoplastic Agents↗

Phase II trial of a combination of vinorelbine, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil in the treatment of advanced breast cancer.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and tolerance of a combination (CT) chemotherapy of Vinorelbine (VNB), Cyclophosphamide (CPA) and 5-Fluorouracil (FU) for the treatment of advanced breast cancer. PATIENTS AND TREATMENT: Forty five women with measurable or evaluable metastatic, locoregionally advanced or relapsing breast cancer have entered the study. Thirty eight patients were not exposed to treatment other than adjuvant CT while 5 were heavily pretreated. Treatment consisted of VNB 25 mg/m2 by rapid i.v. infusion d1 and d3, CPA 600 mg/m2 i.v. as VNB, d2 and 5FU 750 mg/m2/d 1-3 in continuous i.v. infusion. The treatment was repeated every 21 days up to 6 courses if response or stability were obtained. RESULTS: Forty three patients (38 in first line for advanced disease) were evaluable for response and tolerance. The overall response rate (UICC criteria) was 51% (95%; CI: 36-65%) with 12 and 39% CR and PR respectively, while an additional 33% had stable disease. The response and stability rate were similar in first and second line treated patients. Responses were observed in all sites while a well documented 50% partial response rate of bone metastases was noted. Median time to progression in first line treated patients was 10.5+ months Median overall survival has not yet been reached; however 61% of patients are alive after a 26 months median follow-up. A total of 236 courses has been administered. The main toxicity was neutropenia (88%) with only 3 cases with dose reduction and one withdrawal. Serious non-hematologic toxicity was limited to 3 cases of GIII mucositis. Digestive toxicity (88% G I-II), diarrhea (7% GI), constipation (19% G I-III), peripheral neuropathy (14% GI-II) and alopecia (42% GI-IV) were also noted but remained controllable. No toxic deaths were registered. CONCLUSION: The combination of VNB, CPA and SFU in advanced or metastatic breast cancer yields a response rate, response duration and survival rate comparable to anthracycline--as well as VNB-containing combinations while maintaining a low toxicity profile. Although CPA seems to be a minor contributor to the efficacy of this regimen, further evaluation should identify the value of this combination, particularly in candidates for heavy chemotherapy breast cancer patients.

Adult↗