DNA-platinum adduct

A **DNA-platinum adduct** is not a classical biological target (such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter), but rather a type of *DNA lesion* formed when platinum-based drugs (notably cisplatin, carboplatin, or oxaliplatin) covalently bind to specific DNA bases, mainly the N7 position of guanine. These adducts include monofunctional and bifunctional intrastrand or interstrand cross-links. Formation of DNA-platinum adducts distorts the DNA structure, blocks DNA and RNA polymerases, inhibits replication and transcription, and leads to cell death through apoptosis. This effect underlies the cytotoxic action of platinum-based chemotherapy. While these adducts can serve as pharmacodynamic *biomarkers* for drug exposure and efficacy monitoring, the term **"DNA-platinum adduct formation"** does not describe a discrete molecular target or protein, but a chemical modification to DNA[1][2][3][4]. - **Note:** The entry as written ("DNA-platinum adduct formation") refers to a chemical event/process, not a protein or canonical drug target, and so is not technically a therapeutic target in the accepted sense. It should not be included in structured target databases as a molecular target; rather, it is the *result* of drug–DNA interaction.

Other names

DNA–Pt adductplatinum–DNA adductDNA–platinum lesionplatinum-induced DNA cross-link

Formation of platinum-DNA adducts that distort the DNA helix, induce DNA cross-links, block DNA replication and transcription, and trigger apoptosis[1][2][3][4]