Page 168 - Phytochemistry 2 (06-PG 605)
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3- Camptothecine
Camptothecine (CPT) is a cytotoxic quinoline alkaloid isolated
from the bark and stem of Camptotheca acuminata
(Camptotheca, Happy tree).
Mechanism of action:
camptothecine is the only known naturally-occurring DNA
topoisomerase I inhibitor.
It binds to the topoisomerase I and DNA complex, stabilizing
the complex. So keeps the chromosomes woundtight, and the
cell can't make proteins. As a result, the cell stops growing.
Disadvantages: Low solubility and adverse drug reaction
