Methodology and limits of preclinical evaluation during the development of anticancer drug combinations

In chemosensitive tumors, cancer chemotherapy is active as drug combinations. During the development of new anticancer drugs, preclinical experimental models may help to design drug combinations. Indeed, in vitro models are able to define drug interactions in terms of synergism, additivity or antagonism, while in vivo models can evaluate therapeutic synergism along with toxicity in a clinical setting. The methodology for in vitro and in vivo evaluation of anticancer drug combinations is described. The limits are discussed. In conclusion, preclinical models contribute to the clinical therapeutic principles.