Dimethylthiourea inhibition of melanoma cell growth in vitro and in vivo.

Abstract

The effect of dimethylthiourea (DMTU), an agent known as a hydroxyl radical scavenger, was determined on growth and differentiation of the B16 murine melanoma cell line. DMTU inhibited melanoma cell growth in vitro and induced changes in the morphology of melanoma cells. Prolonged treatment of cells with DMTU resulted in an increase in melanin content. DMTU-treated melanoma cells had a decreased capacity to form tumors in syngeneic mice. Systemic administration of DMT to C57BL/6J mice inoculated with melanoma cells resulted in a delay in tumor appearance and a prolongation of survival. The doses of DMTU used did not cause any apparent toxic effects. A potential therapeutic role for DMTU in the treatment of melanoma is suggested.