Effect of the Radioprotector WR 2721 on the Response of Metastatic Lewis Lung Carcinoma Colonies to Alkylating Agents

Abstract

WR 2721 protected ‘artificial’ lung metastases of Lewis lung carcinoma against the cytotoxic effects of cyclophos-phamide and melphalan. When mice were pretreated with WR 2721 30 min before exposure to the alkylating agents a signifcant increase in the number of lung metastases could be observed. This protection of micrometastases had a significant impact on survival in the case of cyclophosphamide treatment, but not in the case of melphalan treatment. The degree of protection at a standard dose of WR 2721 was dose dependent.