Nucleotide analogue

Nucleotide Analogue

A Nucleotide Analogue (pronounced: noo-klee-oh-tide an-uh-log) is a compound structurally similar to a naturally occurring Nucleotide, with slight modifications in the sugar, base, or phosphate.

Etymology

The term "Nucleotide Analogue" is derived from the words "Nucleotide", which refers to the basic building blocks of nucleic acids like DNA and RNA, and "Analogue", which means a compound with a structure similar to that of another compound.

Definition

A Nucleotide Analogue is a type of Antiviral or Anticancer drug that interferes with the function of Nucleic Acids in a cell. They are designed to be structurally similar to the normal nucleotides used in DNA or RNA synthesis, allowing them to incorporate into the growing DNA or RNA chain and cause premature termination.

Types of Nucleotide Analogues

There are several types of Nucleotide Analogues, including:

• Cytarabine
• Gemcitabine
• Fludarabine
• Cladribine
• Clofarabine

Mechanism of Action

Nucleotide Analogues work by mimicking the natural nucleotides, thus tricking the DNA Polymerase or RNA Polymerase into incorporating them into the growing DNA or RNA chain. Once incorporated, they cause premature termination of the chain, thus inhibiting the replication of the virus or cancer cell.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, Nucleotide Analogues can have side effects, which can include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Hair Loss

Related Terms

• Nucleoside Analogue
• Antiviral Drug
• Anticancer Drug
• DNA Polymerase
• RNA Polymerase

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Nucleotide analogue
• Wikipedia's article - Nucleotide analogue

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