The Sound of Evolution
Busulfan
Mechanism of action:
Busulfan is an alkylating agent. In the body, busulfan generates reactive alkylating intermediates through chemical reactions, which can form covalent bonds with DNA bases, especially at the N7 position of guanine. This causes cross-linking either between two DNA strands (interstrand) or within the same strand (intrastrand). As a result, DNA replication and transcription are blocked, making rapidly dividing cells such as bone marrow cells more likely to activate apoptosis-related pathways.
Reference(s):
1. Lesurtel M et al. (2006). Platelet-derived serotonin mediates liver regeneration. Science.
2. Valdez BC et al. (2010). Interstrand crosslink inducing agents in pretransplant conditioning therapy for hematologic malignancies. Environ Mol Mutagen.
3. Hall AG et al. (1992). Mechanisms of action of, and modes of resistance to, alkylating agents used in the treatment of haematological malignancies. Blood Rev.