Cytotoxic chemotherapy (null)

Cytotoxic chemotherapy refers to a group of drugs used primarily in cancer therapy that work by directly killing rapidly dividing cells, mainly by interfering with cellular processes such as DNA replication, mitosis, and protein synthesis. These agents include alkylating agents, antimetabolites, topoisomerase inhibitors, and microtubule inhibitors, each with a range of specific molecular targets but united by the end effect of inducing cell death through direct cytotoxic mechanisms. In addition to their direct effects, cytotoxic chemotherapies can modulate the immune system, sometimes enhancing anti-tumor immune responses but also causing broad immunosuppression. While effective in a range of malignancies, they are associated with significant toxicity due to effects on normal proliferating cells.

Other names

ChemotherapyCytotoxic drugsConventional chemotherapyAntineoplastic agents

DNA damage (alkylation/crosslinking, e.g., cyclophosphamide, cisplatin); Inhibition of DNA synthesis (antimetabolites, e.g., 5-FU, methotrexate); Disruption of mitosis (microtubule inhibitors, e.g., paclitaxel, vincristine); Topoisomerase inhibition (e.g., doxorubicin, etoposide); Induction of apoptosis; Immunomodulation (induction of immunogenic cell death and effects on immune cell populations)