The Sound of Evolution
Idoxuridine
Mechanism of action:
Idoxuridine is a halogenated pyrimidine nucleoside analogue. Idoxuridine is a thymidine analogue that is first phosphorylated by viral or host thymidine kinase after entering the cell, converting it into its triphosphate form, which can then be incorporated into viral DNA by viral DNA polymerase. Because idoxuridine contains an iodine atom on the pyrimidine ring, its incorporation into DNA causes unstable base pairing and distortion of DNA structure, preventing the virus from completing effective DNA replication.
Reference(s):
1. Seth AK et al. (2004). Topical liposomal gel of idoxuridine for the treatment of herpes simplex: pharmaceutical and clinical implications. Pharm Dev Technol.
2. Otto SE et al. (1998). Radiopharmaceuticals (strontium 89) and radiosensitizers (idoxuridine). J Intraven Nurs.
3. Fauth E et al. (1999). Comparison of spontaneous and idoxuridine-induced micronuclei by chromosome painting. Mutat Res.