Gosset Molecular Classification
Enzyme, DNA Polymerase, Reverse Transcriptase
Other Names
Nucleoside Analog Incorporation, DNA Synthesis Enzyme Inhibition, DNA Polymerase Inhibition, Reverse Transcriptase Inhibition by Nucleoside Analogs
Disease Roles
DNA Polymerase Inhibition by Nucleoside Analog Incorporation Overview
Inhibition of DNA polymerases and/or reverse transcriptases through the incorporation of nucleoside analogs into nascent DNA strands, leading to chain termination and disruption of DNA synthesis. This is a common mechanism of action for many antiviral and anticancer drugs.
Mechanism of Action
Competitive substrate mimicry of natural nucleotides, leading to chain termination during DNA synthesis by DNA polymerases and reverse transcriptases upon incorporation into the DNA strand.
Biological Functions
DNA replication
Genome duplication
Cell cycle regulation
Apoptosis induction
Viral replication
Disease Associations
Cancer
Viral infections
Safety Considerations
- Myelosuppression
- Drug resistance
- Off-target effects on host cell DNA replication
Interacting Drugs
Cytarabine