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Mechanism-based Suppression of Cancer by Targeting DNA-Replicating Enzymes
Preeti Arya1, Hitesh Malhotra1, Benu Chaudhary1
1Guru Gobind Singh College of Pharmacy, Yamunanagar, Haryana, India.
Abstract:
The human genetic structure undergoes continuous wear and tear process due to the mere presence of extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors. In normal physiological cells, DNA damage initiates various checkpoints that may activate the repair system or induce apoptosis that helps maintain cellular integrity. While in cancerous cells, due to alterations in signaling pathways and defective checkpoints, there exists a marked deviation of error-free DNA repairing/synthesis. Currently, cancer therapy targeting the DNA damage response shows significant therapeutic potential by tailoring the therapy from non-specific to tumor-specific activity. Recently, numerous drugs that target the DNA replicating enzymes have been approved or some are under clinical trial. Drugs like PARP and PARG inhibitors showed sweeping effects against cancer cells. This review highlights the mechanistic study of different drug categories that target DNA replication and thus depicts the futuristic approach of targeted therapy.
Insights
Cancer cells exhibit defective DNA repair, unlike normal cells. Targeting DNA replication with drugs like PARP inhibitors offers a promising, tumor-specific cancer therapy approach.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Oncology
Background:
- Cellular integrity relies on DNA repair mechanisms, which are often compromised in cancer cells.
- Cancer cells display altered signaling pathways and defective checkpoints, leading to errors in DNA repair and synthesis.
- Targeting the DNA damage response (DDR) in cancer presents a significant therapeutic opportunity.
Conclusions:
- Targeting DNA replication and repair pathways is a viable strategy for cancer treatment.
- PARP and PARG inhibitors show considerable promise in preclinical and clinical settings.
- Future cancer therapy will likely focus on precise, targeted interventions in DNA replication and repair.
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