Emerging Roles of Carbohydrates and Glycomimetics in Anticancer Drug Design
Author: Barchi Jr., J.J.
Source: Current Pharmaceutical Design, Volume 6, Number 4, 1 March 2000 , pp. 485-501(17)
Publisher: Bentham Science Publishers
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Abstract:
Tumorigenesis is accompanied by marked changes in the expression and presentation of various macromolecules at the cell surface. These tumor-associated adjustments result from the differential expression of genes coding for the production or post-translational modifications of these macromolecules during transformation to a particular tumor phenotype. In turn, tumor cells acquire distinct biophysical properties which set them apart from their normal counterparts. Alterations of carbo-hydrate structures and their organization on the surface of neoplastic cells is a hallmark of the tumorigenic and, most notably, the metastatic phenotype. Carbohydrate-protein and carbohydrate-carbohydrate interactions are critical events in the progression, dissemination and invasion of cancer cells. Many cell-cell contacts and subsequent remodeling of the tumor microenvironment are mediated by cell-surface glycans. The discovery of agents that modulate these interactions or interfere with the processing of tumor associated oligosaccharides is a fervent area of research today. This review will highlight the current status of the use of carbohydrate-based compounds that are being evaluated as potential anticancer therapeutics. In addition, the use of structures based on glycopeptides and carbohydrate mimetics will also be discussed.Keywords: carbohydrates and glycomimetics; anti cancer drug; glycoprocessing enzymes; glycosidase inhibitors; tumor vaccine design; Tn and Sialyl Tn and Tf; glycolipid based; polysacchrides and BRM; CD44 and Hyaluronan
Document Type: Review article
DOI: 10.2174/1381612003400876
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