Review of Clinical Cancer Research Methodology of Botanical Agents

Abstract

Objectives : The cancer incidence and cancer burden is increasing. In addition, the use of botanical agents in cancer care is increasing. This article aims to review a research strategy for botanical agents. Methods : The clinical studies of anticancer botanical agents and the papers about clinical research methodology of botanical agents were reviewed. Results : In phase I study, safety confirmation, optimal dose determination and drug interaction study are important. Most botanical agents have low toxicity and some have non-monotone dose response. Therefore, dose-response curve must be evaluated separately from the dose-toxicity curve to determine optimal dose. Although anticancer botanical agents can't shrink tumor size rapidly, they do extend survival. So, in phase Ⅱ study, response should be evaluated by the survival. Conclusions : Clinical research of botanical agents in cancer is different from traditional methods and strategies. Considering the characteristics of botanical agents and experimental mechanism is necessary in conducting botanical based clinical trials.