Targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory agents to tumors

Curr Pharm Des. 2009;15(16):1825-43. doi: 10.2174/138161209788453220.

Abstract

Inflammation is considered a hallmark of cancer. The chronic inflammatory process is driven by the interaction of cells, proteins, cytokines, transcription factors, and lipid mediators within the tumor microenvironment giving rise to complex pro-inflammatory cascades. These can be inhibited by a variety of different anti-inflammatory compounds, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, glucocorticoids, anti-inflammatory biologicals, phytotherapeutics (mainly polyphenols), and drugs with pleiotropic anti-inflammatory effects. In general, it appears that the anti-tumor activity of these compounds occurs at higher doses than the doses used in conventional anti-inflammatory therapy. To optimally take advantage of the anti-tumor activity and at the same time limit side effects, targeted delivery of anti-inflammatory drugs appears an attractive approach.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / administration & dosage*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Clinical Trials as Topic
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / physiology
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy*

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Inflammation Mediators