Bendamustine therapy in chronic lymphocytic leukemia

BACKGROUND: Bendamustine is now approved in the US for the treatment of chronic lymphocytic leukemia and low grade non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and is currently being explored in the treatment of several solid tumor types. OBJECTIVE: The bi-functionality of bendamustine was used to provide a therapeutic understanding of both its benefit as well as adverse effects. METHODS: Pertinent biochemistry and molecular biology pathways are reviewed with regards to bendamustine activity. In view of these pathways bendamustine was reviewed in human clinical trials. RESULTS/CONCLUSION: Bendamustine combines alkylating properties with purine analogue properties making it an effective drug in chronic lymphocytic leukemia where agents that affect these pathways have proven useful. There is limited evidence of cross-reactivity with this agent and other pure purine analogues and alkylators.