In vitro activity of titanocenedichloride versus cisplatin and doxorubicin in primary and recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer.

BACKGROUND

Titanocenedichloride (MKT 4) is a new antineoplastic metal complex with proven activity in several experimental tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In the present study, the cytotoxic activity of titanocenedichloride in fourteen primary and twelve recurrent ovarian carcinomas (OvCA) was evaluated by an in vitro adenosine triphosphate (ATP) bioluminescence assay.

RESULTS

In primary tumors, MKT 4 was found to be at least as effective as cisplatin (DDP) and doxorubicin (DOX). In samples derived from pretreated patients, titanocenedichloride was even more active. In both groups of tumors, a lack of cross resistance between the two metal compounds as well as between MKT 4 and DOX was apparent. The new agent was found to be active in eight of seventeen DDP-resistant (primaries: n = 4; recurrences n = 4) and also eight of seventeen DOX-resistant tumors (primaries: n = 4; recurrences n = 4).

CONCLUSIONS

These results indicate a remarkable in vitro activity of titanocenedichloride in native OvCA specimens, even in those exhibiting resistance against cisplatin or doxorubicin. The putative role of this novel drug for the future therapy of OvCA should be evaluated by additional in vitro and in vivo studies.