Implementation of EUnetHTA core Model® in Lombardia: the VTS framework.

Objectives: This study describes the health technology assessment (HTA) framework introduced by Regione Lombardia to regulate the introduction of new technologies. The study outlines the process and dimensions adopted to prioritize, assess and appraise the requests of new technologies.

Methods: The HTA framework incorporates and adapts elements from the EUnetHTA Core Model and the EVIDEM framework.

Neurotoxicity of platinum compounds: comparison of the effects of cisplatin and oxaliplatin on the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y.

The main dose-limiting side effect of cancer treatment with platinum compounds is peripheral neurotoxicity. To investigate the intracellular mechanisms of platinum drugs neurotoxicity we have studied the effects of cisplatin and oxaliplatin on the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y. Both platinum compounds are toxic causing cellular death by inducing apoptosis but oxaliplatin is less neurotoxic than cisplatin.