Antifolaattien

Antifolaattien is a broad term encompassing substances that interfere with the metabolism or action of folic acid (vitamin B9). Folic acid is crucial for cell growth, DNA synthesis, and repair, making it essential for rapidly dividing cells like those in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract. Antifolaattien can disrupt these processes, leading to various biological effects.

These substances can be broadly categorized into antifolate drugs and natural antifolates. Antifolate drugs are commonly used in medicine, particularly in chemotherapy for treating cancer and as immunosuppressants for autoimmune diseases. Examples include methotrexate, pemetrexed, and trimetrexate. These drugs work by inhibiting enzymes like dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR), which is vital for converting dihydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate, the active form of folic acid. By blocking this conversion, antifolate drugs deplete the cell's supply of tetrahydrofolate, halting DNA synthesis and cell proliferation.

Natural antifolates are found in various plants and microorganisms. Some of these may have medicinal properties or can be toxic if ingested in sufficient quantities. Their mechanisms of action often involve similar enzymatic inhibition as their synthetic counterparts.

The effects of antifolaattien can vary depending on the specific substance, dosage, and duration of exposure. In therapeutic settings, side effects can include myelosuppression (reduced production of blood cells), gastrointestinal toxicity, and mucositis. Due to their impact on rapidly dividing cells, antifolaattien can also pose risks during pregnancy, potentially leading to birth defects. Careful monitoring and management are essential when using antifolate medications.