| abstract |
A camptothecin derivative comprising a compound of the formula ÄIÜ: <CHEM> wherein R<1> is a substituted or unsubstituted lower alkyl group, X<1> is a group of the formula: -NHR<2> (R<2> is a hydrogen atom or a lower alkyl group) or a group of -OH, and Alk is a straight chain or branched chain alkylene group having optionally an oxygen atom in the chain thereof, bound to a polysaccharide having carboxyl groups via an amino acid or a peptide, or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. Said camptothecin derivatives show enhanced antitumor activities but few side effects unlike conventional anticancer agents, and hence, these compounds are extremely useful as a medicament. |