Design of new anticancer therapies targeting cell cycle checkpoint pathways

Curr Opin Oncol. 2001 Nov;13(6):484-90. doi: 10.1097/00001622-200111000-00011.

Abstract

The mammalian cell cycle is exquisitely controlled by the cyclin-dependent kinases, which regulate cell cycle progression. Cell cycle transitions are, in turn, controlled by checkpoints that monitor the integrity and replication status of the genetic material before cells commit to either replicate or segregate their DNA. On activation, checkpoints interface with cyclin-Cdk complexes to block the cell cycle. Pharmacologic compounds that exploit our current knowledge of cell cycle and checkpoint pathway regulation offer insights into the development of novel therapeutic strategies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology*
  • Cell Cycle / drug effects*
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases / metabolism*
  • DNA Damage
  • DNA Replication*
  • Drug Design*
  • Humans
  • Mammals
  • Neoplasms / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • Cyclin-Dependent Kinases