Arsenic trioxide

Mechanism of Action

(hypothetical)

• Cell Differentiation: Arsenic trioxide promotes the maturation of immature promyelocytic cells, which are typically characteristic of APL.
• Induction of Apoptosis: It triggers programmed cell death (apoptosis) in leukemic cells, thereby inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.
• Interaction with Molecular Targets: Arsenic trioxide specifically targets the PML-RARα fusion protein, which plays a critical role in the development of APL in patients.

Its high efficacy and targeted action on the PML-RARα fusion protein, which is characteristic of APL, make arsenic trioxide an important component in oncological therapy.

Advantages of Arsenic Trioxide in Therapy
 

• Targeted Action: Arsenic trioxide specifically targets the PML-RARα fusion protein, sparing healthy cells to a large extent.
• High Efficacy: It shows excellent results in inducing remission of APL, especially when combined with other therapies such as all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA).
• Favorable Side Effect Profile: The treatment is generally well tolerated, even in patients who cannot tolerate alternative therapies.
• Long-Term Stability: Studies demonstrate increased long-term remission in APL patients.
• Flexibility in Use: It can be effectively used both as a monotherapy and in combination therapies.

These advantages make arsenic trioxide a key drug in modern oncology.