Development of novel anti-cancer agents targeting cancer stem cells

2016 Fiscal Year Final Research Report

• Project/Area Number: 26460201
• Research Category: Grant-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C)
• Allocation Type: Multi-year Fund
• Section: 一般
• Research Field: Medical pharmacy
• Research Institution: Kagoshima University
• Principal Investigator: Ikeda Ryuji 鹿児島大学, 医歯学域附属病院, 准教授 (50398278)
• Project Period (FY): 2014-04-01 – 2017-03-31
• Keywords: 抗がん剤耐性 / がん幹細胞 / ABCトランスポーター

Outline of Final Research Achievements

Mechanisms of anti-cancer drug resistance include various factors, such as the increased drug efflux by cancer cells, activation of survival signaling pathways by growth factors. In addition, cancer stem cells have been found in tumors. Cancer stem cells are characterized by the overexpression of ABC transporters, such as P-glycoproteins and breast cancer resistance protein. The expressions of the transporters partially explain the multidrug resistance of cancer. Novel anti-cancer agents and therapies have been developed every year. Besides conventional anti-cancer agents, molecular target drugs for cancer play important roles in the management of cancer therapy. However, some tumors become resistant to these drugs. Medical practice and research based on more scientific evidence are demanded to provide appropriate and high-quality treatments for patients.

Free Research Field

医療系薬学