Antiretroviral therapy and cancer: a comparative effect of efavirenz on embryonic cam and tissue morphology
Author(s):
McNeil Rosaleen Thecla O
Introduction: The development of angiostatic drugs is a useful treatment strategy for diseases with angiogenic tendencies. In our previous work the anti-angiogenic (thus anti-oncogenic) properties of Efavirenz was discussed. Its effect on embryonic vascular patterning and tissue morphology is hereby reported.
Methods: Fertile eggs of the domestic fowl (Gallus gallus variant domesticus) were treated on day 3 of incubation (Hamburger and Hamilton’s stage 21) with Efavirenz through a single needle puncture into the air cell, and were assessed on day 15 for embryonic viability and gross tissue morphology, in comparison to thalidomide and an untreated control group (n=5) [1].
Result: Exogenous Efavirenz and Thalidomide both inhibited CAM angiogenesis (Thalidomide-80%, Efavirenz-100%). Embryonic viability was 20% for thalidomide, and 0% in the Efavirenz group. There was no sign of erythropoiesis in Efavirenz-treated CAMs.
Conclusion: The anti-angiogenic potency of Efavirenz in chick CAMs surpassed that of thalidomide. Efavirenz is a potential anti-oncogenic agent with additional clinical prospects.