N4-Chloroacetylcytosine arabinoside

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

N4-Chloroacetylcytosine arabinoside (also known as N4-CCA) is a chemical compound that belongs to the class of nucleoside analogues. It is a derivative of cytosine arabinoside, a medication used in the treatment of various types of cancer.

Chemistry[edit | edit source]

N4-Chloroacetylcytosine arabinoside is a synthetic compound that consists of a cytosine base attached to an arabinose sugar molecule. The cytosine base is modified by the addition of a chloroacetyl group at the N4 position. This modification enhances the compound's ability to inhibit DNA synthesis, making it a potential candidate for use in chemotherapy.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

The pharmacological action of N4-Chloroacetylcytosine arabinoside is similar to that of other nucleoside analogues. It is incorporated into the DNA of rapidly dividing cells, such as cancer cells, where it inhibits DNA synthesis and induces cell death. However, the exact mechanism of action of N4-CCA is still under investigation.

Clinical Use[edit | edit source]

While N4-Chloroacetylcytosine arabinoside is not currently approved for use in humans, it has shown promise in preclinical studies for the treatment of various types of cancer, including leukemia and lymphoma. Further research is needed to determine its safety and efficacy in humans.

See Also[edit | edit source]


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD