Synthetic retinoid fenretinide is effective against a human ovarian carcinoma xenograft and potentiates cisplatin activity.

Fenretinide or N-(4-hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4HPR) is a synthetic retinoid currently being tested clinically, which can inhibit the development and the growth of breast and prostate cancers in rodents. The efficacy of 4HPR alone and in combination with cisplatin was tested against the human ovarian carcinoma IGROV-1 xenograft i.p. Administration p.o. of 4HPR was not effective, whereas intracavitary treatment significantly increased the survival time of treated mice. It also enhanced the antitumor activity of cisplatin. These findings suggest that 4HPR may be an active agent against epithelial ovarian tumors.