Topoisomerase inhibitor

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Topoisomerase inhibitor

Topoisomerase inhibitor (pronunciation: toh-poh-ih-soh-muh-rays in-hib-it-or) is a type of drug that interferes with the action of topoisomerase enzymes.

Etymology

The term "topoisomerase inhibitor" is derived from the name of the enzyme it inhibits, "topoisomerase," and the term "inhibitor," which refers to a substance that slows down or stops a chemical reaction.

Definition

A topoisomerase inhibitor is a chemical compound that blocks the action of topoisomerases, enzymes that control the changes in DNA structure by catalyzing the breaking and rejoining of the phosphodiester backbone of DNA strands during the normal cell cycle.

Types

There are two types of topoisomerase inhibitors: Topoisomerase I inhibitors and Topoisomerase II inhibitors. Topoisomerase I inhibitors include drugs like camptothecin and topotecan. Topoisomerase II inhibitors include drugs like etoposide and doxorubicin.

Use in Medicine

Topoisomerase inhibitors are used in chemotherapy to treat many types of cancer, including lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and leukemia. They work by preventing cancer cells from dividing and growing.

Side Effects

Like all chemotherapy drugs, topoisomerase inhibitors can have side effects. These can include nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and fatigue. More serious side effects can include anemia, neutropenia, and an increased risk of infection.

Related Terms

  • Topoisomerase: An enzyme that controls the changes in DNA structure.
  • Chemotherapy: A type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
  • Cancer: A disease caused by an uncontrolled division of abnormal cells in a part of the body.
  • Enzyme: A substance produced by a living organism that acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.

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