Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) (DNA)

Genomic deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is the fundamental molecule that stores the genetic blueprint of an organism and serves as a critical therapeutic target in oncology. DNA adducts are covalent modifications formed when reactive chemical species, such as platinum-based chemotherapy drugs or alkylating agents, bind to DNA bases. These adducts, particularly inter-strand and intra-strand cross-links, create structural distortions in the double helix that physically impede the progression of DNA and RNA polymerases. This interference halts essential processes like DNA replication and transcription, leading to cell cycle arrest and the induction of programmed cell death, or apoptosis (Source: National Cancer Institute). While the formation of DNA adducts is a potent strategy for killing rapidly dividing cancer cells, it is also a non-specific process that can damage healthy cells. Consequently, the persistence of these adducts can lead to mutagenic effects, increasing the risk of secondary malignancies and other systemic toxicities (Source: PubMed, PMID: 25135310). Monitoring the levels of specific DNA adducts, such as platinum-DNA complexes, is often used in research and clinical trials as a biomarker for drug exposure and to predict therapeutic response.

Other names

Genomic DNADNA adductsDNA lesionsCovalent DNA modificationsGenomic DNA/d adducts

Drugs targeting genomic DNA typically act by forming covalent adducts with DNA bases, leading to intra-strand or inter-strand cross-links. These modifications distort the DNA structure and physically block the progression of DNA and RNA polymerases, thereby inhibiting DNA replication and transcription and ultimately inducing apoptosis (Source: PubChem, NIH).