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DNA intercalators
DNA intercalators insert themselves between DNA base pairs to disrupt DNA replication and transcription, leading to cancer cell death.
DNA intercalators insert themselves between DNA base pairs to disrupt DNA replication and transcription, leading to cancer cell death. Used for Various solid tumors and hematologic malignancies (specific indications under phase 2 evaluation by UNICANCER).
At a glance
| Generic name | DNA intercalators |
|---|---|
| Also known as | capecitabine, 5-FU, gemcitabine |
| Sponsor | UNICANCER |
| Drug class | DNA intercalator |
| Target | DNA (double helix) |
| Modality | Small molecule |
| Therapeutic area | Oncology |
| Phase | Phase 2 |
Mechanism of action
DNA intercalators are planar aromatic compounds that wedge between the double helix strands of DNA, distorting the helical structure and blocking DNA synthesis and RNA transcription. This mechanism is particularly effective against rapidly dividing cancer cells that depend on active DNA replication. The class includes both classical agents (e.g., doxorubicin, daunorubicin) and newer investigational compounds being evaluated in phase 2 trials.
Approved indications
- Various solid tumors and hematologic malignancies (specific indications under phase 2 evaluation by UNICANCER)
Common side effects
- Myelosuppression (neutropenia, thrombocytopenia)
- Cardiotoxicity
- Nausea and vomiting
- Alopecia
- Mucositis
Key clinical trials
- Impact of ExtraCorporeal Phototherapy (ECP) on Auxiliary Follicular T-lymphocytes and Circulating B-lymphocytes During Chronic AntiBody-Mediated Rejection in Kidney Transplantation. (NA)
- SAFIR02_Breast - Efficacy of Genome Analysis as a Therapeutic Decision Tool for Patients With Metastatic Breast Cancer (PHASE2)
- Comparative Trial for Pixantrone in Combination With Rituximab in Indolent Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (PHASE3)
- Dose Ranging Trial for Pixantrone in the FND-R Variant Regimen in Indolent Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma (PHASE1)
Primary sources
Every claim on this page is sourced from regulatory or scientific primary sources. See our editorial policy for full methodology.
| Source | Used for |
|---|---|
| ClinicalTrials.gov | Trial enrolment, design, endpoints, results |
Competitive intelligence
For the full competitive landscape — auto-detected comparators, recent regulatory actions across the set, upcoming PDUFA, patent timeline, sponsor landscape:
- DNA intercalators CI brief — competitive landscape report
- DNA intercalators updates RSS · CI watch RSS
- UNICANCER portfolio CI