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NCI Drug Dictionary


liposomal lurtotecan 
A liposome-encapsulated formulation of lurtotecan with antineoplastic activity. Lurtotecan, a semisynthetic analogue of camptothecin, selectively stabilizes the topoisomerase I-DNA covalent complex and forms an enzyme-drug-DNA ternary complex during S phase of the cell cycle, thereby inhibiting religation of topoisomerase I-mediated single-stranded DNA breaks. This ultimately results in an inhibition of DNA replication, inducing double-stranded DNA breakages, obstruction of RNA and protein synthesis and triggering apoptosis. Furthermore, this agent also stimulates degradation of topoisomerase I, likely mediated through ubiquitin-proteasomal pathway. Liposomal delivery of lurtotecan improves its penetration and delivery into tumors while lowering systemic side effects. Check for active clinical trials or closed clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)
Synonyms:lurtotecan liposome
NX 211
OSI-211
Abbreviation:NX211