Mechanism-based Suppression of Cancer by Targeting DNA-Replicating Enzymes

Abstract

The human genetic structure undergoes continuous wear and tear process due to the mere presence of extrinsic as well as intrinsic factors. In normal physiological cells, DNA damage initiates various checkpoints that may activate the repair system or induce apoptosis that helps maintain cellular integrity. While in cancerous cells, due to alterations in signaling pathways and defective checkpoints, there exists a marked deviation of error-free DNA repairing/synthesis. Currently, cancer therapy targeting the DNA damage response shows significant therapeutic potential by tailoring the therapy from non-specific to tumor-specific activity. Recently, numerous drugs that target the DNA replicating enzymes have been approved or some are under clinical trial. Drugs like PARP and PARG inhibitors showed sweeping effects against cancer cells. This review highlights the mechanistic study of different drug categories that target DNA replication and thus depicts the futuristic approach of targeted therapy.

Keywords: Cancer; DNA damage response; PARP; cancer cells.; thymidylate synthase; topoisomerase.