Bleomycin

Structure of Bleomycin

• Bleomycin is a glycopeptide antibiotic comprising a metal-binding domain and a bithiazole ring, linked to a glycosidic sugar moiety.

• Chemical Formula: C₅₇H₇₉N₁₂O₂₉S₆

Structure of Bleomycin

Mode of Action

• DNA Scission: Induces single and double-strand breaks in DNA.

• Chelation of Iron: Forms complexes with iron, generating free radicals that damage DNA.

• Apoptosis Induction: Leads to programmed cell death in cancerous cells.

Uses

1. Hodgkin's Lymphoma: Often part of ABVD regimen (Adriamycin, Bleomycin, Vinblastine, Dacarbazine).

2. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: In specific treatment protocols.

3. Testicular Cancer: Particularly seminomas.

4. Head and Neck Cancers: As part of multi-agent chemotherapy.

5. Breast Cancer: In combination with other chemotherapeutic agents.