L-buthionine-sulfoximine-mediated radiosensitization in experimental interstitial radiotherapy of intracerebral D-54 MG glioma xenografts in athymic mice.

An intracranial (i.c.) interstitial radiotherapy model in athymic nude mice bearing i.c. D-54 MG human glioma xenografts was developed, allowing evaluation of the therapeutic benefits seen after L-buthionine-S,R-sulfoximine (L-BSO)-mediated depletion of tumor glutathione levels. Administration of L-BSO [2.5 mmol/kg intraperitoneal injections x 4 doses plus concomitant availability in acidified (pH 3.0) drinking water at a concentration of 20 mM] resulted in depletion of tumor glutathione levels to 0.15 mumol/g wet weight (7.9% of control). The therapeutic activity of i.c. interstitial radiotherapy with an 125I seed was enhanced after L-BSO-mediated glutathione depletion, with increases in median survival of 13.4 to 30.5% over that seen with 125I seeds alone. These studies demonstrate a potential role for BSO in enhancing the therapeutic activity of interstitial radiotherapy.

Duke Scholars

Author Edward Charles Halperin Radiation Oncology

Author Darell Doty Bigner Neurosurgery

Author Henry Seth Friedman Neurosurgery, Neuro-Oncology