Temozolomide
Temozolomide (Temodar®) is an alkylating agentA chemical that is able to transfer small hydrocarbons to other molecules. They can cause mutations due to their ability to modify nucleotides in DNA. used primarily to treat refractory brain tumors (astrocytomas) in adult patients. It may also be used in the treatment of metastaticThe term for a cancer that has spread beyond its point of origin. Metastatic disease is responsible for the majority of cancer deaths. melanoma and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Temozolomide is administered in capsule form.1
Temozolomide is a non classic alkylating agentA chemical that is able to transfer small hydrocarbons to other molecules. They can cause mutations due to their ability to modify nucleotides in DNA. that creates fragmented DNAAbbreviation for deoxyribonucleic acid. Composed of very long strings of nucleotides, which are abbreviated as A, C, G and T. DNA is the storage form of our genetic material. All of the instructions for the production of proteins are encoded in our DNA. and prevents DNA and RNAAlso: ribonucleic acid. RNA is a polymer comprised of the nucleotides A, C, G and U. RNA is the working form of our genetic information. RNA is produced via the process of transcription. Some RNA is used to help build ribosomes (rRNA) and some (mRNA) are used to guide the formation of proteins. Other forms of RNA are used to perform specialized functions in the nucleus. proteinOne of the four basic types of biomolecule. Proteins are polymers made up of strings of amino acids. Proteins serve many functions in organisms including transport of molecules, structure, cell adhesion and as signaling molecules such as hormones. Many transcription factors, including p53 and Rb are proteins. synthesis. Different from other drugs, Temozolomide does not inhibit through cross-linking with DNA.1
The diagram above shows the 3D molecular structure of Temozolomide.
Common side effects include nausea and vomiting, headache, fatigue, myelosuppressionThe decreased activity of the blood cell precursors located in the bone marrow. Both red and white blood cells in the bloodstream originate from these cells which are often short-lived and are replaced constantly by rapidly dividing precursor stem cells. Chemotherapy agents, radiation and many other cancer treatments are designed to attack rapidly dividing cells and inhibit the activity of these normal bone marrow cells. Several side effects of cancer treatment, such as anemia and a decreased ability to fight infections (immunosuppression) are due to the effects of these treatments on bone marrow cells. (reduced bone marrow activity). Women who are or plan to become pregnant should consult with their physician before beginning treatment with this drug. 1
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