oncostatic

Oncostatic refers to agents or therapies that inhibit the growth or proliferation of cancer cells. These substances do not necessarily kill cancer cells outright, but rather slow down or halt their multiplication, thereby preventing the tumor from increasing in size. This mechanism is distinct from cytotoxic agents, which are designed to directly kill cancer cells.

The term oncostatic is derived from Greek words, with "onco" relating to tumors or masses and "static" meaning stationary or not moving. Therefore, oncostatic agents aim to keep cancer in a stable, non-progressing state. This approach can be beneficial in managing chronic cancers, where complete eradication may be difficult or impossible, or as a complementary strategy to other cancer treatments.

Oncostatic therapies can operate through various mechanisms. Some may interfere with the signaling pathways that cancer cells rely on for growth and division. Others might target the blood supply that tumors need to survive and expand, a process known as anti-angiogenesis. Hormonal therapies in certain cancers can also exhibit oncostatic effects by blocking hormones that stimulate cancer cell growth.

The development and use of oncostatic agents represent an important strategy in oncology, aiming to improve patient quality of life and prolong survival by controlling the progression of the disease.