adenovirus vector

One of a number of genetically-engineered adenoviruses designed to insert a gene of interest into a eukaryotic cell where the gene of interest is subsequently expressed. Unlike most other vectors, adenovirus vectors have the ability to infect post-mitotic cells. Thus, these agents are especially useful for gene transfer into neuronal cells.

adenovirus-interferon-gamma TG1042

A replication-defective adenoviral vector encoding human interferon-gamma (IFN-g) cDNA with potential antineoplastic and immunoregulatory activities. Upon intratumoral administration, the prolonged expression of IFN-g by adenovirus-interferon-gamma TG1042 promotes a T helper type 1 (Th1-type) immune response and inhibits the Th2-mediated cytokine production observed in many cutaneous lymphomas. IFN-g also mediates interleukin-12 (IL-12) production by antigen-presenting cells (APCs); activates macrophages, cytotoxic T-cells, and natural killer (NK) cells; upregulates major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules; and stimulates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC). Altogether, these IFN-g-mediated effects may result in an inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and tumor cell death.

ADH-1

A small, cyclic pentapeptide vascular-targeting agent with potential antineoplastic and antiangiogenic activities. ADH-1 selectively and competitively binds to and blocks N-cadherin, which may result in disruption of tumor vasculature, inhibition of tumor cell growth, and the induction of tumor cell and endothelial cell apoptosis. N-cadherin, a cell- surface transmembrane glycoprotein of the cadherin superfamily of proteins involved in calcium-mediated cell-cell adhesion and signaling mechanisms; may be upregulated in some aggressive tumors and the endothelial cells and pericytes of some tumor blood vessels.

adipose-derived regenerative cells

A population of cells derived from adipose tissue with stem cell and wound repair activities. Adipose-derived regenerative cells (ADRC) consists of several cell types, such as adult stem cells, vascular endothelial cells, and vascular smooth muscle cells, among others. These cells contribute to wound repair through a variety of mechanisms by promoting blood vessel growth and blocking apoptosis. In addition, ADRC can differentiate into several tissue types, such as bone, cartilage, fat, skeletal muscle, smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.

adozelesin

An alkylating agent that bind to the DNA minor groove in a sequence-specific manner and form covalent adducts with adenines, resulting in the inhibition of DNA replication and induction of apoptosis.

Adriamycin PFS

(Other name for: doxorubicin hydrochloride)

Adriamycin RDF

(Other name for: doxorubicin hydrochloride)

AdRTVP-1-transduced prostate cancer cell-based vaccine

A cell-based vaccine comprised of prostate cancer cells transduced with an adenoviral vector encoding human RTVP-1 (AdRTVP-1), with potential immunostimulating and antineoplastic activities. RTVP-1, also referred to as glioma pathogenesis-related protein 1 (GLIP1), is down-regulated in prostate tumors. Regulated by tumor suppressor p53, the expression of RTVP-1 functions as a tumor suppressor, and is abundant in normal human prostate epithelial cells as well as in differentiated macrophages. Administration of AdRTVP-1-transduced prostate cancer cell-based vaccine leads to an induction of apoptosis through the expression of RTVP-1, which may result in a reduction in prostate cancer cellular proliferation. In addition, this vaccine may induce a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against prostate specific tumor- associated antigens.

Adrucil

(Other name for: fluorouracil)

ADVEXIN

(Other name for: Ad5CMV-p53 gene)

AEE788

An orally bioavailable multiple-receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitor. AEE788 inhibits phosphorylation of the tyrosine kinases of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGF2), resulting in receptor inhibition, the inhibition of cellular proliferation, and induction of tumor cell and tumor-associated endothelial cell apoptosis.

AEG35156

A second-generation synthetic antisense oligonucleotide with potential antineoplastic activity. AEG35156 selectively blocks the cellular expression of X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), a pivotal inhibitor of apoptosis that is overexpressed in many tumors. This agent reduces total levels of XIAP in tumor cells, working synergistically with cytotoxic drugs to overcome tumor cell resistance to apoptosis. XIAP interferes with both the intrinsic and extrinsic program-death signaling pathways, which may render tumor cells resistant to apoptosis.

Aeroseb-Dex

(Other name for: dexamethasone)

Aeroseb-HC

(Other name for: therapeutic hydrocortisone)

aerosol sargramostim

An aerosol inhalation formulation containing a yeast-derived glycosylated recombinant form of human granulocyte macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM-CSF) with potential immunostimulating activity. Sargramostim binds to specific cell surface receptors, modulating the proliferation and differentiation of a variety of hematopoietic progenitor cells with some specificity towards stimulation of leukocyte production. This agent also activates neutrophils, monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells and promotes antigen presentation, upregulates antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), and increases interleukin-2-mediated, lymphokine-activated killer cell function. Aerosol inhalation may help achieve high concentrations of sargramostim in the lung.

aerosolized liposomal 9-nitro-20 (S) camptothecin

An aerosolized liposomal preparation of a water-insoluble derivative of camptothecin with potential antineoplastic activity. 9-nitro-20 (S)-camptothecin and its active metabolite 9-aminocamptothecin (9-AC) selectively stabilize topoisomerase I-DNA covalent complexes during S-phase, thereby inhibiting religation of topoisomerase I-mediated single-strand DNA breaks and producing potentially lethal double-strand DNA breaks when encountered by the DNA replication machinery. This agent is formulated with dilauroylphosphatidylcholine and nebulized in particle sizes of 1.2-1.6 micrometer mass median aerodynamic diameter.

afamelanotide

A synthetic peptide analogue of the naturally occurring alpha-melanocyte stimulating hormone (a-MSH) with potential photoprotective activity. Mimicking the action of a-MSH, afamelanotide stimulates melanocytes to increase the production and release of melanin. Increased melanocyte melanin may protect against ultraviolet radiation (UVR)-initiated cellular DNA damage, oxidation of membrane proteins, and alterations in intracellular signaling processes in epidermal cells. Endogenously, a-MSH is released by skin cells in response to UVR exposure, stimulating melanocytes to produce and release melanin.

Affinitac

(Other name for: ISIS 3521)

Affinitak

(Other name for: ISIS 3521)

Afinitor

(Other name for: everolimus)

aflibercept

A protein comprised of segments of the extracellular domains of humanvascular endothelial growth factor receptors 1 (VEGFR1) and 2 (VEGFR2)fused to the constant region (Fc) of human IgG1 with potentialantiangiogenic activity. Afilbercept, functioning as a soluble decoyreceptor, binds to pro-angiogenic vascular endothelial growth factors(VEGFs), thereby preventing VEGFs from binding to their cell receptors.Disruption of the binding of VEGFs to their cell receptors may result inthe inhibition of tumor angiogenesis, metastasis, and ultimately tumorregression.

Aflodac

(Other name for: sulindac)

AFP gene hepatocellular carcinoma vaccine

A cancer vaccine composed of naked plasmid DNA of the gene for the tumor-associated antigen alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a macromolecule that acts as a specific immunologic target for hepatocellular carcinoma. This agent exerts an antitumor effect by inducing cytotoxic T-lymphocytes to attack AFP-expressing tumor cells.

AFP464

A synthetic lysyl prodrug of the amino-substituted flavone derivate aminoflavone with antiproliferative and antineoplastic activities. AFP464 is rapidly converted to aminoflavone in plasma. Aminoflavone activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) signaling pathway leading to an increase in cytochrome P450 1A1 (CYP1A1) and cytochrome P450 1A2 (CYP1A2) expression and, to a lesser extent, an increase in cytochrome P450 1B1 (CYP1B1) expression. Subsequently, aminoflavone is metabolized to toxic metabolites by the cytochromome P450 enzymes that it induces; these toxic metabolites covalently bind to DNA, resulting in the phosphorylation of p53, the induction of the p53 downstream target p21Waf1/Cip1, and apoptosis. Pulmonary toxicity may be dose-limiting.

AG-024322

A cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor with antineoplastic activity. AG-024322 selectively inhibits cyclin-dependent kinases (particularly CDK1,2 and 4), enzymes that regulate cell cycle progression. Inhibition of CDK may result in cell cycle arrest, induction of apoptosis, and inhibition of DNA replication and tumor cell proliferation.

Agaricus blazei Murill extract

A dietary supplement containing an extract of the Basidiomycete fungus Agaricus blazei Murill with potential chemopreventive, antineoplastic and immunopotentiating activities. Agaricus blazei Murill extract contains high levels of phytochemicals, especially beta-D-glucans. Beta-D-glucans may promote dendritic cell (DC) maturation; increase interferon gamma (IFN-gamma), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha) and immunoglobulin levels; and may enhance natural killer (NK) cell activity, potentially boosting anti-tumor host immune responses.

agatolimod sodium

The tricosasodium salt of a synthetic 24-mer oligonucleotide containing 3 CpG motifs with potential antineoplastic and immunostimulatory activity. Agatolimod selectively targets Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9), thereby activating dendritic and B cells and stimulating cytotoxic T cell and antibody responses against tumor cells bearing tumor antigens.

Aknoten

(Other name for: tretinoin)

Akt inhibitor GSK2110183

An orally bioavailable inhibitor of the serine/threonine protein kinase Akt (protein kinase B) with potential antineoplastic activity. Akt inhibitor GSK2110183 binds to and inhibits the activity of Akt, which may result in inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and tumor cell proliferation and the induction of tumor cell apoptosis. Activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is frequently associated with tumorigenesis and dysregulated PI3K/Akt signaling may contribute to tumor resistance to a variety of antineoplastic agents.

Akt inhibitor GSK2141795

An orally bioavailable inhibitor of the serine/threonine protein kinase Akt (protein kinase B) with potential antineoplastic activity. Akt inhibitor GSK2141795 binds to and inhibits the activity of Akt, which may result in inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and tumor cell proliferation and the induction of tumor cell apoptosis. Activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is frequently associated with tumorigenesis and dysregulated PI3K/Akt signaling may contribute to tumor resistance to a variety of antineoplastic agents.

Akt inhibitor SR13668

An orally bioavailable indole-3-carbinol (I3C) analogue inhibitor of the serine/threonine protein kinase Akt (protein kinase B) with potential antineoplastic and antiangiogenic activities. Akt inhibitor SR13668 binds to and inhibits the activity of Akt, which may result in inhibition of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway and tumor cell proliferation, and the induction of tumor cell apoptosis. Activation of the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway is frequently associated with tumorigenesis and dysregulated PI3K/Akt signaling may contribute to tumor resistance to a variety of antineoplastic agents.

Alba-Dex

(Other name for: dexamethasone)

albuterol sulfate

The sulfate salt of the short-acting sympathomimetic agent albuterol, a 1:1 racemic mixture of (R)-albuterol and (S)-albuterol with bronchodilator activity. Albuterol stimulates beta2-adrenergic receptors in the lungs, thereby activating the enzyme adenylate cyclase that catalyzes the conversion of ATP to cyclic-3',5'-adenosine monophosphate (cAMP). Increased cAMP concentrations relax bronchial smooth muscle, relieve bronchospasms, and reduce inflammatory cell mediator release, especially from mast cells. To a lesser extent albuterol stimulates beta1-adrenergic receptors, thereby increasing the force and rate of myocardial contraction.

Aldactone

(Other name for: spironolactone)

Aldara

(Other name for: imiquimod)

aldesleukin

A recombinant analog of the endogenous cytokine interleukin-2 (IL-2) with immunoregulatory and antineoplastic activities. Aldesleukin binds to and activates the IL-2 receptor, followed by heterodimerization of the cytoplasmic domains of the IL-2R beta and gamma(c) chains; activation of the tyrosine kinase Jak3; and phosphorylation of tyrosine residues on the IL-2R beta chain, resulting in an activated receptor complex. Various cytoplasmic signaling molecules are recruited to the activated receptor complex and become substrates for regulatory enzymes that are associated with the receptor complex. This agent enhances lymphocyte mitogenesis; stimulates long-term growth of human IL-2 dependent cell lines; enhances lymphocyte cytotoxicity; induces lymphokine-activated killer (LAK) cell and natural killer (NK) cell activities; and induces expression of interferon-gamma. Aldesleukin may induce T cell-mediated tumor regression in some tumor types.

alefacept

A recombinant dimeric fusion protein consisting of the extracellular CD2-binding domain of the human leukocyte function-associated antigen 3 (LFA-3; CD58) linked to the Fc portion of human immunoglobulin G1 (IgG1) with potential immunosuppressive activity. Alefacept binds to the CD2 receptor expressed on the majority of T lymphocytes, blocking the binding of endogenous LFA-3, located on antigen-presenting cells (APCs), to the CD2 receptor; the activation and proliferation of T lymphocytes in response to LFA-3 binding is thus inhibited. In addition, binding of the IgG1 moiety of this agent to the Fc gamma receptor on the surface of natural killer (NK)cells may bridge NK cells and target T lymphocytes, initiating NK cell-mediated apoptosis of T lymphocytes.

alemtuzumab

A recombinant DNA-derived humanized monoclonal antibody directed against the cell surface glycoprotein CD52. Alemtuzumab is an IgG1 kappa with human variable framework and constant regions, and complementarity-determining regions derived from a rat monoclonal antibody. This agent selectively binds to CD52, thereby triggering a host immune response that results in lysis of CD52 + cells. CD52 is a glycoprotein expressed on the surface of essentially all normal and malignant B and T cells, a majority of monocytes, macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells, a subpopulation of granulocytes, and tissues of the male reproductive system.

alendronate sodium

The sodium salt of alendronate, a second generation bisphosphonate and synthetic analog of pyrophosphate with bone anti-resorption activity. Alendronate sodium binds to and inhibits the activity of geranyltranstransferase (farnesyl pyrophosphate synthetase), an enzyme involved in terpenoid biosynthesis. Inhibition of this enzyme prevents the biosynthesis of isoprenoid lipids (FPP and GGPP) that are donor substrates of farnesylation and geranylgeranylation during the post-translational modification of small GTPase signalling proteins, which is important in the process of osteoclast turnover. As a result, osteoclast activity is inhibited and bone resorption and turnover are reduced.

Alfenta

(Other name for: alfentanil hydrochloride)

alfentanil hydrochloride

The hydrochloride salt form of alfentanil, an ultra short-acting, synthetic, opioid agonist with analgesic and local anesthesia enhancing activity. Alfentanil hydrochloride primarily binds to and stimulates the opiate receptors in the central nervous system (CNS), thereby mimicking the actions of endogenous opioids. Stimulation of the mu-subtype opioid receptor stimulates the exchange of GTP for GDP on the G-protein complex and subsequently inhibits adenylate cyclase. This results in a decrease in intracellular cAMP and leads to a reduction in the release of various neurotransmitters. The analgesic effect of alfentanil is likely due to the actions of its metabolite morphine, which induces opening of G-protein-coupled inwardly rectifying potassium (GIRK) channels and blocks the opening of N-type voltage-gated calcium channels, thereby resulting in hyperpolarization and reduced neuronal excitability.

Alferon

(Other name for: recombinant interferon alpha-2a)

Alferon N

(Other name for: recombinant interferon alfa)

alfuzosin hydrochloride

The hydrochloride salt of alfuzosin, a quinazoline compound with smooth muscle-relaxing activity. Alfuzosin selectively binds to and antagonizes post-synaptic alpha1-adrenoreceptors in smooth muscle of the prostate, bladder base, bladder neck, prostatic capsule, and prostatic urethra, initiating relaxation of smooth muscle and resulting in improvement of urine flow and the symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). This agent also blocks alpha1-adrenoreceptors in peripheral vascular smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilatation and a decrease in peripheral vascular resistance.

ALIMTA

(Other name for: pemetrexed disodium)

alitretinoin

An orally- and topically-active naturally-occurring retinoic acid with antineoplastic, chemopreventive, teratogenic, and embryotoxic activities. Alitretinoin binds to and activates nuclear retinoic acid receptors (RAR) and retinoid X receptors (RXR); these activated receptors act as transcription factors, regulating gene expression that results in the inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of cell differentiation, and apoptosis of both normal cells and tumor cells.

ALK1 inhibitor ACE-041

A soluble fusion protein containing the extracellular domain of activin receptor-like kinase-1 (ALK1) fused to a human Fc domain (ALK1-Fc fusion protein), with potential antiangiogenic and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, ALK1 inhibitor ACE-041 binds to various ALK1 ligands, preventing activation of tumor cell ALK1 receptors and so inhibiting the ALK1 signaling pathway; growth factor-induced angiogenesis is thus inhibited, which may result in the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation and tumor cell death. ALK1 is a type I cell surfacereceptor with serine/threonine kinase activity thatmediates signaling by members of the transforminggrowth factor-beta (TGFbeta) superfamily and plays a key role in angiogenesis; ligands for this receptor include TGFbeta1 and TGFbeta2. The Fc moiety of this fusion protein mediates clearance of ligand-fusion protein complexes by the reticuloendothelial system (RES).

Alkeran

(Other name for: melphalan)

AllerNaze

(Other name for: triamcinolone acetonide)

AlloDerm

(Other name for: acelullar cadaveric dermal matrix)

allogeneic adult mesenchymal stem cells

Human mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) harvested from bone marrow of healthy adult donors and expanded ex vivo, with potential immunosuppressive activity. Allogeneic adult MSCs are hypo-immunogenic due to lack of major histocompatibility II (MHC II) molecule expression, eliciting little, if any, host immune response upon intravenous infusion. Infusion of allogeneic MSCs may result in: a) increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin-10, prostaglandin E, and hepatocyte growth factor; b) decreased mononuclear phagocyte expression of indoleamine 2,3,-dioxygenase, which catabolizes L-tryptophan into its pro-inflammatory metabolites; and c) modulated dendritic cell (DC)maturation and disrupted activities of natural killer (NK) cells and CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. In addition, pluripotent MSCs, upon administration, may be recruited to damaged tissue sites, differentiating along specific lineages when stimulated.

allogeneic B7.1/HLA-A1 transfected tumor cell vaccine

An allogeneic whole cell vaccine, derived from irradiated allogenic tumor cells manipulated to express human B7.1 (CD80 antigen) and human leukocyte antigen (HLA) A1, with potential antitumor activity. Vaccination with allogeneic B7.1/HLA-A1 transfected tumor cell vaccine may elicit a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against similar host tumor cells, resulting in decreased tumor cell proliferation.

allogeneic CD4+ memory Th1-like T cells/microparticle-bound anti-CD3/anti-CD28

A preparation consisting of allogeneic, differentiated Th1-like T cells bound to T cell-stimulating monoclonal antibodies with potential antitumor activity. More specifically, allogeneic CD4+ memory Th1-like T cells/microparticle-bound anti-CD3/anti-CD28 are composed of a proprietary preparation of mismatched, allogeneic differentiated CD4+ memory Th1-like T cells bound to paramagnetic, epoxy-covered 4.5 micron microparticles with covalently bound anti-CD3/anti-CD28 monoclonal antibodies at a 2:1 bead:cell ratio. The CD4+ memory Th1-like T cells are derived from precursors found in the circulation of a normal donor. Stimulated by the microparticle-bound monoclonal antibodies, the infused T cells produce pro-inflammatory, anti-tumor cytokines such as like IFN-gamma, TNF-beta, and IL-2, disabling tumor immune avoidance mechanisms and stimulating the host immune system to both reject the infused T cells and kill tumor cells.

allogeneic CMV/AdV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes

A population of allogeneic cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) specifically reactive to cytomegalovirus (CMV) and adenovirus (AdV) with potential antiviral activity. Allogeneic CMV/AdV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes are prepared by exposing donor-derived CTLs to a lethally irradiated Epstein-Barr virus-positive lymphoblastoid B cell line (EBV-LCL) that has been transduced with a clinical-grade adenoviral vector (Ad5f35CMVpp65) as a source of CMV and AdV antigens. Infusion of these CTLs into stem cell transplant recipients may prevent CMV and AdV viral disease.

allogeneic dendritic cell-myeloma idiotype vaccine

A cell-based vaccine composed of allogeneic dendritic cells pulsed ex-vivo with an autologous myeloma idiotype with potential antineoplastic activity. Upon administration, allogeneic dendritic cell-myeloma idiotype vaccine may stimulate the host immune system to mount a specific cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response against myeloma cells, resulting in cell lysis.

allogeneic GM-CSF-secreting breast cancer vaccine

An allogenic vaccine consisting of irradiated breast cancer cells transfected with the granulocyte macrophage-colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) gene. Upon vaccination, the genetically modified cells secrete GM-CSF, thereby potentiating a tumor-specific T cell response against breast cancer cell-asociated antigens.

allogeneic large multivalent immunogen breast cancer vaccine

A cancer vaccine, containing human-specific large multivalent immunogens (LMIs) isolated from the membrane fraction of cells from a breast cancer cell line, with potential immunostimulatory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, allogeneic large multivalent immunogen breast cancer vaccine may stimulate a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) immune response against tumor cells that express the breast cancer cell-specific LMIs.

allogeneic large multivalent immunogen melanoma vaccine LP2307

A cancer vaccine, containing human-specific large multivalent immunogen (LMI) isolated from plasma membrane fractions of the melanoma cell lines MSM-M1 and MSM-M2, with potential immunostimulating and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, allogeneic large multivalent immunogen melanoma vaccine LP2307 may stimulate a CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against melanoma tumor cells that express melanoma-specific LMI.

allogeneic LMP1-/LMP2- specific cytotoxic T-lymphocytes

A preparation of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes (CTL), specifically reactive to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latent membrane proteins (LMP) 1 and 2, with potential antineoplastic activity. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) are collected from a donor and are exposed ex vivo to dendritic cells (DCs) transfected with a replication-deficient adenovirus encoding EBV LMP1/2 to generate LMP1/2-specific CTL which are subsequently expanded. Administration of allogeneic LMP1-/LMP2- specific CTL to patients with LMP1/2-positive tumors may result in a specific CTL response against tumor cells expressing LMP1 and LMP2, resulting in cell lysis and inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. As tumor associated antigens (TAAs), LMP1 and LMP2 are expressed in various malignancies including nasopharyngeal cancer and EBV-positive Hodgkin lymphoma.

allogeneic melanoma vaccine AGI-101H

A cancer vaccine derived from two gentically modified human melanoma cell lines with potential antineoplastic activity. Allogeneic melanoma vaccine AGI-101H consists of a 1:1 mixture of cells from two genetically modified human melanoma cell lines, designated as Mich1H6 and Mich2H6, that have been gamma-irradiated to render the cells non-proliferative. Upon administration, this vaccine may stimulate a cytotoxic immune response against melanoma tumor cells.

allogeneic multipotent adult progenitor cells

A biologic product that consists of undifferentiated stem cells, obtained from adult bone marrow or other non-embryonic tissue sources, that are expanded in vitro and deposited in master cell banks for "off-the-shelf" use, with potential hematopoiesis-inducing and immunomodulating activities. Allogeneic multipotent adult progenitor cells (MAPCs) are non-immunogenic due to the lack of major histocompatibility (MHC) molecule expression, and so elicit no immune response upon administration. In vivo, bone marrow-derived adult stem cells are capable of maturing into a broad range of cell types and may help restore the immune system by producing multiple therapeutic molecules in response to inflammation and tissue damage.

allogeneic tumor cell vaccine

A vaccine composed of tumor cells isolated from the tumor of one patient, killed and processed, and administered to another patient in order to stimulate cytotoxic immune responses to a similar tumor cell type. The cells found in this type of whole-cell vaccine express many cell-surface tumor-associated antigens. This vaccine is frequently administered with an adjuvant immunostimulant.

allopurinol

A structural isomer of hypoxanthine. Allopurinol inhibits xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that converts oxypurines to uric acid. By blocking the production of uric acid, this agent decreases serum and urine concentrations of uric acid, thereby providing protection against uric acid-mediated end organ damage in conditions associated with excessive production of uric acid, i.e. the massive cell lysis associated with the treatment of some malignancies.

Alocrest

(Other name for: vinorelbine liposomes injection)

aloe vera gel

A preparation of leaf pulp from the parenchymal tissue of the plant Aloe vera (Liliaceae). Aloe vera gel contains carbohydrate polymers, such as glucomannans or pectic acid, and various vitamins and essential amino acids, as well as other organic and inorganic compounds. This agent has been used internally or externally for sunburn, skin problems, insect bites, ulcers, arthritis, constipation, and as an immune system enhancer.

Aloxi

(Other name for: palonosetron hydrochloride)

alpha fetoprotein adenoviral vector vaccine

A vaccine consisting of a recombinant adenoviral vector encoding alpha fetoprotein. After vaccination, expressed alpha fetoprotein may stimulate a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against tumor cells that express alpha fetoprotein, resulting in tumor cell lysis.

alpha fetoprotein plasmid DNA vaccine

A vaccine consisting of plasmid DNA encoding alpha fetoprotein. After vaccination, expressed alpha fetoprotein may stimulate a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against tumor cells that express alpha fetoprotein, resulting in tumor cell lysis.

alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase-expressing allogeneic lung tumor cell vaccine

An allogeneic lung cancer vaccine with potential immunostimulating and antineoplastic activities. Derived from allogeneic lung tumor cells, alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase-expressing allogeneic lung tumor cell vaccine is engineered to express the murine alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase (GalT), an enzyme humans lack. GalT catalyzes the expression of foreign alpha-1,3-galactosyl (alpha-gal) carbohydrate epitopes in glycoproteins and in glycolipids on the cell membranes of the allogeneic lung tumor cells present in the vaccine, essentially producing a "xenograft". The hyperacute rejection involves pre-existing human anti-alpha-gal antibodies that bind the foreign alpha-gal epitopes expressed by the vaccine tumor cell “xenograft”, resulting in complement-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) towards endogenous lung tumor cells with unmodified carbohydrate epitopes.

alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase-expressing allogeneic pancreatic tumor cell vaccine

A cancer vaccine comprised of irradiated allogeneic pancreatic cancer cells transfected to express murine alpha-1,3-galactosyltransferase with potential antitumor activity. Vaccination is associated with the expression of murine alpha-1,3-galactosyl (alpha-gal) carbohydrate residues on cell membrane glycoproteins and glycolipids of the vaccine pancreatic cancer cell allograft; murine alpha-gal epitopes, not present on human cells, then induce a hyperacute rejection of the vaccine pancreatic cancer cell allograft. The hyperacute rejection involves the binding of pre-existing human anti-alpha-gal antibodies (which naturally occur against gut flora) to murine alpha-gal epitopes, resulting in the rapid activation of antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) towards allograft cells. The host immune system then attacks endogenous pancreatic cancer cells, resulting in ADCC towards endogenous pancreatic cancer cells.

alpha-Gal glycosphingolipids

A preparation of glycosphingolipids (GSL), containing the disaccharide epitope galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (alpha-Gal), with potential antineoplastic activity. Upon intratumoral injection, alpha-Gal glycosphingolipids may stimulate the immune system to mount complement-mediated cytotoxicity (CMC) and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) responses against alpha-Gal GSL, which may result in tumor cell death; these responses involve natural anti-alpha-Gal immunoglobulins (Igs). As antibodies that occur naturally due to sensitization to alpha-Gal present on symbiotic bacterial flora, anti-alpha-Gal Igs are present in unusually high amounts in human sera. GSL represent a glycolipid subtype containing the amino alcohol sphingosine; tumor-associated GSL antigens contain various oligosaccharide residues.

alpha-galactosylceramide-pulsed autologous dendritic cells

A cancer vaccine comprised of autologous dendritic cells (DCs) pulsed with the marine sponge glycolipid alpha-galactosylceramide (alpha-GalCer) with potential immunostimulatory and antimetastatic activities. Upon administration, alpha-galactosylceramide-pulsed autologous dendritic cells may result in the activation and proliferation of a subset of endogenous natural killer T ( NKT) cells, B cells, and CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, and the production of interferon-gamma and interleukin-12; these cascade events may result in a T helper-1 cell-biased proinflammatory antitumor immune response. The NKT cell ligand alpha-GalCer was originally isolated from the marine sponge Agelas mauritianusis.

alpha-lipoic acid

A naturally occurring micronutrient, synthesized in small amounts by plants and animals (including humans), with antioxidant and potential chemopreventive activities. Alpha-lipoic acid acts as a free radical scavenger and assists in repairing oxidative damage and regenerates endogenous antioxidants, including vitamins C and E and glutathione. This agent also promotes glutathione synthesis. In addition, alpha-lipoic acid exerts metal chelating capacities and functions as a cofactor in various mitochondrial enzyme complexes involved in the decarboxylation of alpha-keto acids.

alpha-lipoic acid analogue CPI-613

A racemic mixture of the enantiomers of a synthetic alpha-lipoic lipoic acid analogue with potential chemopreventive and antineoplastic activities. Although the exact mechanism of action is unknown, alpha-lipoic acid analogue CPI-613 has been shown to inhibit metabolic and regulatory processes required for cell growth in solid tumors. Both enantiomers in the racemic mixture exhibit antineoplastic activity.

alpha-type-1 polarized dendritic cells

A population of mature polarized dendritic cells with potent immunostimulating activity. Treating bone marrowed-derived dendritic cells (DCs) with interferon-alpha (IFN-a), polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) and bacterial CpG-DNA produces mature but not exhausted alpha type-1 polarized DCs (alphaDC1) that are capable of: 1) high responsiveness to other lymphoid chemokines, and 2) producing high levels of interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70), characteristics found in human type-1 polarized dendritic cells. When pulsed with specific tumor associated antigens (TAAs), alphaDC1 may induce a potent cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against TAA-expressing tumor cells.

alprazolam

A triazolobenzodiazepine agent with anxiolytic, sedative-hypnotic and anticonvulsant activities. Alprazolam binds to a specific site distinct from the inhibitory neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) binding site on the benzodiazepine-GABA-A-chloride ionophore receptor complex located in the limbic, thalamic and hypothalamic regions of the central nervous system (CNS). This binding causes an allosteric modification of the receptor and enhances the affinity of GABA to the receptor leading to an increase in the frequency of chloride-channel opening events. This leads to an increase in chloride ion conductance, neuronal hyperpolarization, inhibition of the action potential and leads to a decrease in neuronal excitability.

alprostadil

The naturally occuring prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) which displays a variety of pharmacologic actions. Alprostadil is a potent vasodilator agent that increases peripheral blood flow, inhibits platelet aggregation, and induces bronchodilation. Used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, this agent produces corporal smooth muscle relaxation by binding to PGE receptors, resulting in the activation of adenylate cyclase and the subsequent accumulation of 3'5'-cAMP.

Althose

(Other name for: methadone hydrochloride)

altretamine

A synthetic cytotoxic s-triazine derivative similar in structure to alkylating agent triethylenemelamin with antineoplastic activity. Although the precise mechanism by which altretamine exerts its cytotoxic effect is unknown, N-demethylation of altretamine may produce reactive intermediates which covalently bind to DNA, resulting in DNA damage.

alum adjuvant

An aluminum compound with immune adjuvant activity. This agent adsorbs and preciptates protein antigens in solution; the resulting precipitate improves vaccine immunogenicity by faclitating the slow release of antigen from the vaccine depot formed at the site of inoculation.

ALVAC(2) melanoma multi-antigen therapeutic vaccine

A therapeutic cancer vaccine, based on a replication-defective recombinant canarypox virus (ALVAC) encoding multiple melanoma antigens, with potential immunostimulatory and antineoplastic activities. Vaccination with ALVAC(2) melanoma multi-antigen therapeutic vaccine may stimulate the host immune system to mount an immune response against antigen-expressing melanoma cells, resulting in inhibition of tumor growth and/or metastasis.

ALVAC(2)-NY-ESO-1 (M)/TRICOM vaccine

A cancer vaccine consisting of a replication-defective recombinant canarypox virus [ALVAC(2)] encoding the cancer-testis antigen NY-ESO and the TRIad of COstimulatory Molecules (B7-1, ICAM-1 and LFA-3; also called TRICOM), with potential immunostimulatory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, ALVAC(2)/NY-ESO (M)/TRICOM vaccine may stimulate the host immune system to mount a cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against NY-ESO-expressing cancer cells, which may result in the inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. NY-ESO-1, a tumor associated antigen (TAA), is found in normal testis and on the surface of various tumor cells, including bladder, breast, hepatocellular, melanoma, and prostate tumor cells. TRICOM may enhance antigen presentation and activate cytotoxic T-cells. In addition, ALVAC(2) encodes the vaccinia virus (vv) E3L ad K3L genes, which may potentiate the translation of the NY-ESO and TRICOM genes.

ALVAC-hB7.1

A vaccine comprise of a canarypox viral vector that carries the gene for human B7.1 (CD80 antigen) with potential use as an autologous therapeutic cancer vaccine. Tumor cells harvested from a patient are infected with ALVAC-hB7 1, thereby producing an autologous cell line that exhibits increased expression of HLA class I and class II, CD54 (ICAM), and CD80. Increased expression of these proteins by this autologous cell line may activate an antitumor T-cell response when the modified cells are administered to the patient.

ALVAC-MART-1 vaccine

A cancer vaccine containing a replication-defective recombinant canarypox virus (ALVAC), encoding an epitope of MART-1 (melanoma antigen recognized by T-cells), with potential immunostimulatory and antineoplastic activities. Upon administration, the MART-1 epitope is expressed by the ALVAC vector in ALVAC-MART-1 vaccine; a host cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against MART-1-expressing tumor cells may follow, resulting in tumor cell lysis and decreased tumor cell proliferation.

alvespimycin hydrochloride

The hydrochloride salt of alvespimycin, an analogue of the antineoplastic benzoquinone antibiotic geldanamycin. Alvespimycin binds to HSP90, a chaperone protein that aids in the assembly, maturation and folding of proteins. Subsequently, the function of Hsp90 is inhibited, leading to the degradation and depletion of its client proteins such as kinases and transcription factors involved with cell cycle regulation and signal transduction.

alvimopan

A synthetic trans-3,4-dimethyl-4-(3-hydroxyphenyl) piperidine with peripherally selective opioid mu receptor antagonist activity. Alvimopan is a selective and competitive antagonist at mu-opioid receptors, found in myenteric and submucosal neurons andthe immune cells of the lamina propria in the human gut. Upon administration, this agent binds to mu-opioid receptors in the gut, thereby reversing opiod-related disturbances in gut motility. Alvimopan is approximately three to nine times more potent than naloxone.

alvocidib

A synthetic N-methylpiperidinyl chlorophenyl flavone compound. As an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinase, alvocidib induces cell cycle arrest by preventing phosphorylation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) and by down-regulating cyclin D1 and D3 expression, resulting in G1 cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. This agent is also a competitive inhibitor of adenosine triphosphate activity.

amantadine hydrochloride

The hydrochloride salt of amantadine, a synthetic tricyclic amine with antiviral, antiparkinsonian, and antihyperalgesic activities. Amantadine appears to exert its antiviral effect against the influenza A virus by interfering with the function of the transmembrane domain of the viral M2 protein, thereby preventing the release of infectious viral nucleic acids into host cells; furthermore, this agent prevents virus assembly during virus replication. Amantadine exerts its antiparkinsonian effects by stimulating the release of dopamine from striatal dopaminergic nerve terminals and inhibiting its pre-synaptic reuptake. This agent may also exert some anticholinergic effect through inhibition of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor-mediated stimulation of acetylcholine, resulting in antihyperalgesia.

Ambien

(Other name for: zolpidem tartrate)

AmBisome

(Other name for: liposomal amphotericin B)

Ambochlorin

(Other name for: chlorambucil)

Amboclorin

(Other name for: chlorambucil)

Amdray

(Other name for: valspodar)

American ginseng

The aromatic root of the perennial herb Panax quinquefolius, native to eastern North America. American ginseng, used in Chinese traditional medicine and available as a nutritional supplement, is classified as an adaptogenic herb with multiple effects, many of which are regulatory in nature. It contains a complex mixture of saponin glycosides, also known as ginsenosides or panaxosides. Although the mechanism of action is unclear, this agent is reported to enhance the immune system and reduce fatigue.

Amevive

(Other name for: alefacept)

Amfebutamone

(Other name for: bupropion hydrochloride)

amifostine trihydrate

The trihydrate form of a phosphorylated aminosulfhydryl compound. After dephosphorylation of amifostine by alkaline phosphatase to an active free sulfhydryl (thiol) metabolite, the thiol metabolite binds to and detoxifies cytotoxic platinum-containing metabolites of cisplatin and scavenges free radicals induced by cisplatin and ionizing radiation. The elevated activity of this agent in normal tissues results from both the relative abundance of alkaline phosphatase in normal tissues and the greater vascularity of normal tissues compared to tumor tissues.

aminobenzoate potassium

The potassium salt form of aminobenzoate, with anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic activities. Aminobenzoate potassium increases oxygen uptake at the tissue level and may enhance monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity, which requires oxygen as a substrate. Enhanced MAO activity maybe accountable for the prevention or regression of fibrosis, which may occur due to too much serotonin or too little MAO activity.

aminocamptothecin

A water-insoluble camptothecin derivative. Aminocamptothecin binds to the nuclear enzyme topoisomerase I, thereby inhibiting repair of single-strand DNA breakages. Because the terminal lactone ring of aminocamptothecin required for the agent's antitumor activity spontaneously opens under physiological conditions to an inactive carboxy form, the drug must be administered over an extended period of time to achieve effective cytotoxicity.

aminolevulinic acid

A topically administered metabolic precursor of protoporphyrin IX. After topical administration, aminolevulinic acid (ALA) is converted to protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) which is a photosensitizer. When the proper wavelength of light activates protoporphyrin IX, singlet oxygen is produced, resulting in a local cytotoxic effect.

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