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Abstract
The cardiotoxic effect of anthracyclines limits their use in the treatment of a variety of cancers. The reason for the high susceptibility of cardiac muscle to anthracyclines remains unclear, but it appears to be due, at least in part, to the interaction of these drugs with intracellular iron (Fe). The suggestion that Fe plays an important role in anthracycline cardiotoxicity has been strengthened by observation that the chelator, dexrazoxane (ICRF-187), has a potent cardioprotective effect. In the present review, the role of Fe in the cardiotoxicity of anthracyclines is discussed together with the possible role of Fe chelation therapy as a cardioprotective strategy that may also result in enhanced antitumour activity.