Adavosertib targets the Wee1 G2 checkpoint in the cell cycle. Wee1 kinase normally inhibits the transition from the G2 phase to the M phase (mitosis), allowing time for DNA repair. Inhibition of Wee1 by adavosertib forces cells with damaged DNA to prematurely enter mitosis, leading to mitotic catastrophe and cell death. This mechanism is particularly effective in cancer cells, which often harbor extensive DNA damage.
