Methods for the preparation of pure homologous series of mono to tetra fatty acyl esters of sugars; characterization of one antitumor component as maltose 1, 6, 6' tripalmitate: and pharmaceutical formulations useful in the treatment of cancer.

摘要

The present invention relates to a method for the making pure homologous series of fatty acyl esters of sugars. The production mono- to tetrapalmitates of maltose is particularly examplified. Specific compositions containing di-, tri- and tetrapalmitates of maltose show an antitumoral activity, an immunostimulating and, to some extent, an antiangiogenic effects are also described and claimed. They can be used alone or in the presence of angiostatic steroids for treating angiogenesis-dependent deseases. The characterization of one such new compound, maltose 1, 6, 6' tripalmitate which is the active component of this series is included.