Cell Cycle Non Specific Agents
Cell cycle non-specific agents include:.
Alkylating Agents
The alkylating agents alter DNA structure through the process of alkylation which results in crosslinking and strand breaking of DNA and destruction of its template.
Destruction of the DNA genetic template terminates replication of the information needed for cellular division and leads to cell lysis.
Example Agents
The alkylating agents include:
- Busulfan
- Carboplatin
- Chlorambucil
- Cisplatin
- Cyclophosphamide
- Dacarbazine
- Ifosfamide
- Melphalan
- Thiotepa
Nitrosoureas
Nitrosoureas are alkylating agents that also destroy DNA so that synthesis can no longer occur.
They are also lipid soluble and cross the blood brain barrier into the central nervous system.
They include:
- Carmustine
- Lomustine
The Antitumour Antibiotics
Antitumour antibiotics prevent cell division by damaging the cell and interfering with DNA and RNA synthesis.
Example Agents
The antitumour antibiotics include:
- Dactinomycin
- Daunorubicin
- Doxorubicin
- Idarubicin
- Mitomycin
- Mitoxantrone/Mitozantrone
The Hormones
Hormone and hormone like agents inhibit tumour proliferation by blocking or antagonising the naturally occurring substance that stimulates tumour growth.
Example Agents
Hormones and hormone like agents include:
- Glucocorticoids
- Oestrogens
- Anti-oestrogens
- Aromatase Inhibitors
- Anti-androgens
- Gonadotrophin Inhibitors