Pharmacological and biological aspects of basic research on nucleoside-based reverse transcriptase inhibitors

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Virology
• Oncology

Background:

• Antiretroviral therapies, including nucleoside-based reverse transcriptase inhibitors (NRTIs), are crucial in managing human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection.
• NRTIs target viral replication but also interact with host cell functions, impacting cell growth and death.
• This dual mechanism suggests potential overlap with antineoplastic agents in terms of effects and side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the pharmacological activities of NRTIs.
• To explore the effects of NRTIs on viral replication, neoplastic growth, and cellular functions.
• To understand the implications of these activities for both beneficial and adverse outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of pharmacological activities of NRTIs.
• Analysis of mechanisms of action concerning viral replication.
• Examination of effects on host cell functions, including growth and death pathways.

Main Results:

• NRTIs inhibit viral genome replication by interacting with reverse transcriptase.
• NRTIs interfere with host cell mechanisms regulating growth and death.
• Similarities observed between NRTIs and antineoplastic agents regarding cellular effects and side effects.

Conclusions:

• The pharmacological activities of NRTIs extend beyond viral inhibition to influence host cell functions.
• Understanding these cellular interactions is key to elucidating both the therapeutic efficacy and potential adverse effects of NRTIs.
• NRTIs may share common mechanisms and side effect profiles with antineoplastic drugs due to their impact on cellular processes.