1-methyl-d-tryptophan

Definition / meaning of 1-methyl-d-tryptophan

A substance being studied in the treatment of melanoma and many other types of cancer. 1-methyl-d-tryptophan blocks the breakdown of the amino acid tryptophan, which is needed for T cells (a type of immune system cell) to kill tumor cells. Giving 1-methyl-d-tryptophan to patients who have received chemotherapy for cancer may help kill more tumor cells. It is a type of enzyme inhibitor and immunosuppressant. Also called D-1MT.

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Source(s):

The Web site of the National Cancer Institute (http://www.cancer.gov/)

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