DNA interstrand cross-link (null)

DNA interstrand cross-linking is a chemical process in which covalent bonds are formed between nucleotides on opposing DNA strands, preventing their separation during replication or transcription. Such cross-links are extremely cytotoxic because they block fundamental cellular processes. While some agents capable of inducing cross-links (notably certain chemotherapeutic drugs such as alkylating agents and platinum compounds) are used clinically to kill rapidly dividing cancer cells, the inability to effectively repair these lesions in normal cells can also cause serious toxicity. DNA cross-linking can be detected and repaired through complex cellular mechanisms (notably nucleotide excision repair and homologous recombination). The efficacy of DNA cross-linking drugs in cancer therapy is offset by the risk of resistance (due to upregulated repair) and widespread adverse effects in non-cancerous tissues[1][2][5].

Other names

DNA cross-linkDNA interstrand cross-linkDNA intrastrand cross-linkDNA crosslinkingICL

Drugs form covalent cross-links between DNA strands, blocking DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and cell death[1][2][5].