NCIt definition : A semisynthetic analogue of camptothecin with antineoplastic activity. Lurtotecan
selectively stabilizes the topoisomerase I-DNA covalent complex and forms an enzyme-drug-DNA
ternary complex. As a consequence of the formation of this complex, both the initial
cleavage reaction and religation steps are inhibited and subsequent collision of the
replication fork with the cleaved strand of DNA results in inhibition of DNA replication,
double strand DNA breakage and triggering of apoptosis. Independent from DNA replication
inhibition, lurtotecan also inhibits RNA synthesis, multi-ubiquitination and degradation
of topoisomerase I and chromatin reorganization.;
Alternative definition : NCI-GLOSS: An anticancer drug that belongs to the family of drugs called topoisomerase
inhibitors.;