DNA Cross-linking/Alkylation

DNA Cross-linking/alkylation refers to chemical modifications of DNA where alkyl groups are covalently attached to DNA bases (alkylation) or where two nucleotides within the same or opposite strands of DNA are covalently linked (cross-linking). These processes can be induced by various endogenous and exogenous agents, including certain chemotherapeutic drugs, environmental chemicals, and metabolic byproducts. Both cross-linking and alkylation disrupt normal cellular metabolism by interfering with replication and transcription. Unrepaired lesions trigger cell cycle arrest or apoptosis. Many chemotherapeutic agents exploit these mechanisms to kill rapidly dividing tumor cells.

Other names

DNA AlkylationDNA CrosslinkingDNACross-linkingDNACrosslinkingDNA Adduct Formation

Induces covalent modification/crosslinking within/between DNA strands, blocking replication/transcription and triggering cell death if unrepaired.