Osmosis video - Topoisomerase inhibitors

Topoisomerase inhibitors are a group of medications used in cancer chemotherapy that target the enzyme called DNA topoisomerase I or II, which is involved in DNA replication and transcription.

Topoisomerase inhibitors work by preventing the enzyme from unwinding DNA strands during replication or transcription, which leads to the accumulation of DNA damage and cell death. Examples include irinotecan and topotecan which inhibit topoisomerase I; and etoposide and teniposide which inhibit topoisomerase II.

Topoisomerase inhibitors are used to treat various types of cancer, such as colon cancer, leukemia, ovarian, and small-cell lung cancer. Common side effects of topoisomerase inhibitors include fatigue, gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea, hair loss, anemia, and increased risk of infection. Some patients may also experience more severe side effects, such as cardiac toxicity or secondary malignancies.