NO-generating compounds modify tumoritoxic effect of doxorubicin.

The effects of NO-generating compounds on the tumoritoxic effect of doxorubicin was evaluated by changes in DNA synthesis and apoptotic death of Ehrlich adenocarcinoma cells in vitro. NO donors significantly inhibited the cytotoxic effect of doxorubicin, which manifested in activation of DNA synthesis and decreased induction of apoptosis. Presumably, NO acts a factor protecting tumor cell DNA from the damaging effect of doxorubicin.