How is Nucleotide Synthesis Targeted in Cancer Therapy?
Targeting nucleotide synthesis is a promising strategy in cancer therapy. Many chemotherapeutic agents, such as methotrexate and 5-fluorouracil, inhibit enzymes involved in nucleotide synthesis, thereby disrupting DNA replication and inducing cell death. These therapies exploit the dependency of cancer cells on robust nucleotide synthesis, selectively affecting rapidly dividing cells. Newer strategies aim to develop inhibitors that are more specific to cancer cell metabolism, minimizing side effects on normal cells.
