The polyamines putrescine, spermidine, spermine are ubiquitous components of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. They appear to play important roles in cell proliferation and differentiation, and neoplasia. Their intracellular levels are regulated by a multitude of mechanisms. Some of these mechanisms are presently being unravelled by using monoclonal antibody, cDNA and genomic probes. The polyamine biosynthesis inhibitors have some potential as therapeutic agents against proliferative disorders and various parastic disease. A further
understanding of polyamine related mechanisms will assist in the rational design of new and more potent drugs for treatment of various disease affecting man.
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