Fluorouracil

Structure of Fluorouracil

• Fluorouracil (5-FU) is a pyrimidine analog with the following structural features:

• Uracil Base: Similar to the natural nucleobase uracil.

• Fluorine Atom: Substituted at the 5-position.

• Chemical Formula: C₄H₃FN₂O₂

  

  Structure of Fluorouracil

Mode of Action

• Fluorouracil acts as an antimetabolite by:

• Inhibition of Thymidylate Synthase: Prevents the synthesis of thymidine monophosphate (dTMP), essential for DNA synthesis.

• Incorporation into DNA and RNA: Disrupts nucleic acid function and structure.

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

Uses

1. Colorectal Cancer: As part of combination chemotherapy regimens.

2. Breast Cancer: In certain treatment protocols.

3. Gastric Cancer: Alongside other chemotherapeutic agents.

4. Pancreatic Cancer: In combination therapies.

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