Cytarabine

Structure of Cytarabine

• Cytarabine, also known as Ara-C, is a pyrimidine analog with the following structural features:

• Cytosine Base: Similar to the natural nucleobase cytosine.

• Ribose Sugar: Modified with an arabinose moiety.

• Chemical Formula: C₄H₇N₃O₅

Structure of Cytarabine

Mode of Action

• Cytarabine functions as an antimetabolite by:

• Inhibition of DNA Polymerase: Incorporates into DNA, causing chain termination.

• Inhibition of DNA Synthesis: Disrupts DNA replication and repair.

• Induction of Apoptosis: Causes cytotoxicity in rapidly dividing cells, particularly in leukemic cells.

Uses

1. Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML): As a cornerstone of induction and consolidation therapy.

2. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL): In combination with other chemotherapeutic agents.

3. Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: As part of multi-agent chemotherapy regimens.

4. Hairy Cell Leukemia: In combination with other treatments.