Folate reductase inhibitors

• Folate reductase inhibitors, also known as dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR) inhibitors, are a class of antimicrobial drugs that target the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase in various organisms.

• This enzyme is essential for the synthesis of tetrahydrofolate, which is a key cofactor in the synthesis of nucleic acids and proteins.

• By inhibiting DHFR, these drugs block the production of tetrahydrofolate, leading to the disruption of DNA synthesis and ultimately causing cell death in the targeted organism.

• Side effects of folate reductase inhibitors vary depending on the specific drug and its use.

• Some common side effects include gastrointestinal disturbances, skin rash, and hematologic abnormalities.

• In the case of methotrexate, which also inhibits human DHFR, more severe side effects can occur, such as bone marrow suppression, hepatotoxicity, and pulmonary toxicity.