Nascent chromosomal DNA

Nascent chromosomal DNA refers to the newly synthesized strands of DNA formed during the S-phase of the cell cycle through the action of DNA polymerases [5]. It serves as a critical target for a broad class of chemotherapeutic agents known as antimetabolites, specifically nucleoside and nucleotide analogs [1]. These drugs are designed to mimic natural building blocks and are incorporated into the nascent strand, where they disrupt further elongation or create structural abnormalities [3, 4]. This disruption triggers cellular checkpoints and DNA damage response pathways, ultimately leading to programmed cell death in rapidly dividing cells [1]. While highly effective against various cancers, including leukemias and solid tumors, the targeting of nascent DNA is not inherently cell-specific, affecting all proliferating tissues [2]. Consequently, this leads to characteristic side effects such as bone marrow suppression and gastrointestinal distress [4]. Understanding the dynamics of nascent DNA synthesis is essential for optimizing the timing and efficacy of these cytotoxic therapies.

Other names

Newly synthesized DNAReplicating DNADaughter DNA strandProgeny DNA

Incorporation of nucleoside analogs into the growing DNA strand during replication, leading to chain termination, replication fork arrest, and induction of apoptosis [1, 3, 4].