General description
Anticancer, antiviral agent that is especially effective against leukemias. Induces apoptosis in human myeloid leukemia cells and in rat sympathetic neurons. Induces G1/S phase cell cycle arrest.
Cytosine analog that acts as a potent inhibitor of eukaryotic cellular and viral replicative DNA synthesis. AraCTP, formed by intracellular phosphorylation of AraC, is utilized as a substrate by DNA polymerases, which incorporate AraCMP residues into DNA. Incorporated 3′-terminal AraCMP residues inhibit further DNA synthesis by impeding chain elongation by DNA polymerase. AraC is used clinically in the treatment of various cancers, particularly leukemias and lymphomas. Also used to inhibit proliferation of cultured cells and replication of eukaryotic viruses (e.g. vaccinia virus, herpes simplex virus). Also shown to induce apoptosis in human myeloid leukemia cells and in post-mitotic rat sympathetic neurons.
Biochem/physiol Actions
Cell permeable: no
Primary Target
Anticancer, antiviral agent that is especially effective against leukemias
Product does not compete with ATP.
Reversible: no
Other Notes
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