Nucleoside analog

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Nucleoside analogs are a group of antiviral or anticancer drugs. They are analogues of nucleosides which are the structural units of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA).

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

Nucleoside analogs inhibit the enzymes necessary for DNA and RNA synthesis, particularly DNA polymerase. They are incorporated into the growing DNA chain, causing premature termination.

Types[edit | edit source]

There are several types of nucleoside analogs, including:

Uses[edit | edit source]

Nucleoside analogs are used in the treatment of various diseases, including:

Side effects[edit | edit source]

Common side effects of nucleoside analogs include:

See also[edit | edit source]

Nucleoside analog Resources

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD