Suramin: clinical uses and structure-activity relationships

Mini Rev Med Chem. 2008 Nov;8(13):1384-94. doi: 10.2174/138955708786369573.

Abstract

Suramin is a polysulfonated polyaromatic symmetrical urea. It is currently used to treat African river blindness and African sleeping sickness. Suramin has also been extensively trialed recently to treat a number of other diseases, including many cancers. Here, we examine its modes of action and discuss its structure-activity relationships.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / chemistry
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy
  • Onchocerciasis / drug therapy
  • Onchocerciasis / parasitology
  • Structure-Activity Relationship
  • Suramin / chemistry
  • Suramin / pharmacology*
  • Suramin / therapeutic use*
  • Suramin / toxicity
  • Trypanocidal Agents / chemistry
  • Trypanocidal Agents / pharmacology*
  • Trypanocidal Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Trypanosomiasis / drug therapy
  • Trypanosomiasis / parasitology

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Trypanocidal Agents
  • Suramin