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Abstract
Utilizing a microplate ATP bioluminescence assay, two human breast carcinoma cell
lines, MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231, were tested against doxorubicin (DOX), cisplatin (DDP),
and paclitaxel (Tx) alone and in combination with ascorbic acid (Vit C). In both cell
lines, Vit C exhibited cytotoxic activity at high concentrations (i.e. 10(2)-10(3)
microM). Both cell lines also were resistant to DOX. MCF-7 was found to be DDP-resistant,
MDA-MB-231 was moderately sensitive to DDP. Both cell lines were strongly sensitive
to Tx. Vit C both at non-cytotoxic (1 microM) and moderately cytotoxic concentrations
(10(2) microM) improved the cytotoxicity of DOX, DDP, and Tx significantly. Combination
effects between Vit C and DDP or Tx were partly synergistic and partly additive or
subadditive whereas a consistent synergism was found between Vit C and DOX. The mechanisms
by which Vit C potentiates the cytostatics studied are yet unclear and should be evaluated
further.