Gosset Molecular Classification
α,β-unsaturated aldehyde, Reactive electrophile
Disease Roles
Acrolein Overview
Acrolein is a highly reactive, unsaturated aldehyde formed as a toxic metabolite during the metabolism of oxazaphosphorine drugs such as cyclophosphamide and ifosfamide. It is primarily responsible for urotoxicity (hemorrhagic cystitis) but also contributes to other toxicities via DNA/protein adduction, oxidative stress, and inflammation.
Mechanism of Action
Forms adducts with DNA and proteins, induces oxidative stress and inflammation.
Biological Functions
Protein modification
DNA adduction
Induction of oxidative stress
Induction of apoptosis
Induction of ER stress
Inflammatory signaling
Disease Associations
Urotoxicity
Respiratory tract irritation
Gastrointestinal toxicity
Hepatotoxicity
Neurotoxicity
Mutagenesis
Safety Considerations
- Urotoxicity (hemorrhagic cystitis)
- Respiratory irritation
- Gastrointestinal distress
- Liver damage
- Neurological effects
- Mutagenicity
- Immunosuppression at high concentrations
Interacting Drugs
Cyclophosphamide
Ifosfamide
Mesna