Nucleotide metabolism and DNA synthesis

Nucleotide metabolism and DNA synthesis" is not a specific molecule, protein, or receptor but rather refers to a set of interconnected biochemical pathways and cellular processes essential for the synthesis, salvage, and degradation of nucleotides, which are the building blocks of DNA and RNA[1][2][4]. These pathways involve numerous enzymes—such as ribonucleotide reductase, thymidylate synthase, and various kinases—that convert raw materials into deoxyribonucleotides necessary for DNA replication and repair[2][4][3]. Dysregulation or hyperactivation of nucleotide metabolism is a recognized hallmark of cancer and is targeted therapeutically by several chemotherapeutic agents[7]. Defects in these pathways also underlie genetic and acquired disorders including immunodeficiencies and certain metabolic syndromes[6]. Because "Nucleotide metabolism and DNA synthesis" represents an entire collection of processes and enzyme targets (rather than a single molecular target), it is not suited to being classified as a canonical drug target.

Other names

Nucleoside metabolismNucleic acid metabolismNucleotide synthesisDNA replication

Inhibition of nucleotide biosynthesis enzymes (e.g., thymidylate synthase, dihydrofolate reductase); Inhibition of DNA polymerases; Disruption of DNA chain elongation