DNA (carboplatin adduct site)

Carboplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent whose cytotoxic effect is primarily mediated by formation of covalent adducts with DNA, especially at the N7 positions of purine bases (guanine and adenine). These carboplatin–DNA adducts cause intra- and interstrand crosslinks, leading to inhibition of DNA replication and transcription, triggering cellular apoptosis and death. The rate of adduct formation is slower than cisplatin, resulting in lower potency but fewer side effects. The extent and repair of these adducts determine sensitivity and resistance in cancer therapy. Carboplatin–DNA adduct formation plays a critical biological role in the drug's anticancer mechanism but is a product of the drug–biomolecule interaction, not a conventional protein or receptor drug target. Key point: This entry is not a proper therapeutic target (such as a receptor or enzyme), but a drug-induced DNA lesion. For ontology or structured data, use “DNA (carboplatin binding site)” or “DNA (platinum adduct site)” as the canonical target.

Other names

Carboplatin–DNA adductsPlatinum–DNA adductsDNA–carboplatin complexesPlatinum adducted DNA

Formation of platinum–DNA adducts leading to DNA crosslinking. Blocks DNA replication and transcription, causes mutations, induces apoptosis.