DNA crosslinking and DNA synthesis inhibition via alkylation

DNA crosslinking and synthesis inhibition via alkylation refers to a chemical process rather than a specific molecular target. In this process, exogenous or endogenous agents react with two nucleotides within the same or opposite strands of the double helix, forming covalent bonds known as crosslinks. These lesions disrupt essential cellular processes such as DNA replication and transcription, often resulting in cell cycle arrest or apoptosis[1]. Many chemotherapeutic drugs exploit this mechanism by introducing interstrand or intrastrand links that are cytotoxic to rapidly dividing cancer cells[2][4]. However, because "DNA crosslinking/DNA synthesis inhibition via alkylation" describes an effect on the macromolecule rather than a discrete protein or receptor, it is not considered a canonical therapeutic target but rather an important pharmacological mechanism.

Other names

DNA alkylationDNA cross-linkingDNA interstrand cross-linkingDNA intrastrand cross-linking

Covalent modification (alkylation) of nucleotides in DNA leading to intra/interstrand cross-links that block replication and transcription[1][2][4]