Abstract: A composition for treating tumors comprising a combination of at least one oxidizing agent and at least one aldehyde or precursor thereof, which aldehyde forms an insoluble thiazoline with cysteine. Optionally a compound which inhibits glutathione-s-transferase is included.

Abstract: According to the present invention, a substrate for cytochrome p450 which, after oxidation by cytochrome p450, reacts with thiol groups is conjugated to a saccharide to provide a tumor-specific compound which has low toxicity to normal cells. In one embodiment of the present invention, the saccharide conjugate of the cytochrome p450 substrate is administered in conjunction with a saccharide conjugate of a cytotoxic phenol, which provides a synergistic effect in destroying tumors.

Abstract: Growth or metastasization of malignant tumors can be inhibited by administering to a patient in need thereof sufficient lactose to block crucial lectins on the affected organ so that the tumor cells cannot anchor to other locations in the body. Lactose can be administered alone, or in combination with conjugates of cytotoxic drugs. Preferably, lactose is conjugated to a cytotoxic substance so that the primary tumor is treated concurrently with prevention of metastasis. Additionally, by conjugating a cytotoxic drug to lactose, the cytotoxic drug is maintained in close proximity to the tumor because of the receptors on the tumor which bind the lactose (and therefore the cytotoxic agent bound thereto) to the tumor cells. By using a conjugate of lactose with a cytotoxic agent, one dose is generally sufficient to destroy the receptor sites on the tumor and prevent metastasis of the tumor while treating the tumor.

Abstract: Tumor coils which have both saccharidase and tyrosinase activity are selectively treated by administration of a conjugate of a cytotoxic compound which is a substrate for tyrosinase and at least one saccharide or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof. Among the cytotoxic phenolic compounds which are substrates for tyrosinase which can be used are 4-hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxyanisole, L-3,4-dihydrophenylalanine, dopamine, tertbutylcatechol, hydroquinone, resorcinol, 6-hydroxydopa, and methyl gallate. The efficacy of the treatment is enhanced by also administering a compound that inhibits the action of glutathione reductase.

Abstract: Tumor cells which have .beta.-glucuronidase and tyrosinase activity are selectively treated by administration of a conjugate of a cytotoxic compound which is a substrate for tyrosinase and glucuronic acid or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt or ester thereof particularly the methyl-triacetylated form of glucuronic acid. Among the cytotoxic phenolic compounds which are substrates for tyrosinase which can be used are 4-hydroxyanisole, butylated hydroxyanisole, L-3,4-dihydroxy-phenylalanine, dopamine (3,4-dihydroxyphenethylamine), terbutylcatechol, hydroquinone, resorcinol, 6-hydroxydopa (3,4,6-trihydeoxyphenylalanine) and methyl gallate.The efficacy of the treatment is enhanced by also administering a compound that inhibits the action of glutathione reductase.