Dexelvucitabine

An antiretroviral drug

Dexelvucitabine
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Dexelvucitabine is a nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) that was investigated for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. It is a synthetic analog of cytosine and was developed to inhibit the replication of the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) by interfering with the viral reverse transcriptase enzyme.

Mechanism of Action

Dexelvucitabine works by mimicking the natural nucleosides that are used by the reverse transcriptase enzyme to synthesize viral DNA. Once incorporated into the growing DNA chain, dexelvucitabine acts as a chain terminator, preventing further elongation of the viral DNA. This inhibition of viral DNA synthesis ultimately reduces the viral load in patients.

Development and Clinical Trials

Dexelvucitabine was developed in the early 2000s and underwent several phases of clinical trials. Initial studies showed promise in reducing viral load in patients with HIV. However, further trials revealed concerns about potential toxicity and adverse effects, which led to the discontinuation of its development.

Adverse Effects

During clinical trials, dexelvucitabine was associated with several adverse effects, including lactic acidosis, hepatomegaly, and steatosis. These side effects were significant enough to halt further development of the drug.

Chemical Properties

Dexelvucitabine is a synthetic analog of cytosine, with modifications that allow it to act as a reverse transcriptase inhibitor. Its chemical structure is designed to enhance its ability to be incorporated into viral DNA, while also aiming to reduce its degradation by cellular enzymes.

Related pages

• HIV/AIDS
• Nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor
• Antiretroviral drug

Dexelvucitabine

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  Dexelvucitabine