Scientific Activity
Research was focused on studying the physiological functions of
naturally occurring polyamines (spermine, spermidine and putrescine). Special
emphasis was given to elucidating their role in promoting growth and malignant
transformation. It has been found that they activate protein kinases which are
involved in signal transduction. This resulted in stimulated expression of the
nuclear oncogenes fos. jun and myc
Based on these studies a
new method for determining the sensitivity of cancer cells to chemotherapy and
radiotherapy was developed. This in vitro chemosensitivity test, was
successfully applied for predicting the optimal treatment for hematological
cancer patients. As a result, undesired toxic side effects of anti cancer
agents could be reduced.
The mode of anticancer activity of polyphenols derived from green tea was
also elucidated.
