The Sound of Evolution
Doxorubicin
Mechanism of action:
Doxorubicin is an anthracycline derivative. Doxorubicin contains a planar aromatic ring structure that intercalates between DNA base pairs, distorting the DNA double helix and interfering with transcription and replication. Doxorubicin also inhibits topoisomerase II, stabilizing the DNA-enzyme cleavage complex and preventing DNA re-ligation. This leads to accumulation of DNA breaks, increased cellular repair stress, and ultimately can induce apoptosis.
Reference(s):
1. Weiss RB et al. (1992). The anthracyclines: will we ever find a better doxorubicin? Semin Oncol.
2. Tan C et al. (1967). Daunomycin, an antitumor antibiotic, in the treatment of neoplastic disease: clinical evaluation with special reference to childhood leukemia. Cancer.
3. Arcamone F et al. (1969). Adriamycin, 14-hydroxydaunomycin, a new antitumor antibiotic from Streptomyces peucetius var. caesius. Biotechnol Bioeng.