The Podophyllotoxin Derivatives VP16-213 and VM26

VP16-213 and VM26 are compounds with definite anticancer activity in specific tumor types. Despite 10 years of clinical development the full impact of these compounds in current cancer therapy requires further study. There is no conclusive evidence that one compound is superior to the other in any specific tumor type. The composite activities suggest possible differences in certain cancers such as small cell anaplastic lung cancer, lymphoma, leukemia, bladder and ovarian cancer, but sufficiently adequate studies to determine this have not been reported for any tumor. Understanding the basic pharmacology of these compounds should also be considered of high priority since it is obvious that there is much to learn in this area and further clarification should allow improved clinical utilization. It is hoped that the presentations and discussions of the First International Symposium will generate a new wave of interest in future podophyllotoxin research and development.