Pharmacology, bio-analysis and pharmacokinetics of the vinca alkaloids and semi-synthetic derivatives (review)

Abstract

Vinca alkaloids have been used as chemotherapeutic agents now for over three decades. Especially during recent years, the development of a considerable number of semi-synthetic derivatives, showing attractive properties in preclinical or clinical investigations, has been reported. In this paper we shall give a critical review of the investigations presented on this matter.