DECITABINE Meaning and
Definition
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Decitabine is a nucleoside analog drug primarily used in the treatment of myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a group of disorders characterized by inefficient production of healthy blood cells in the bone marrow. It falls under the class of medications known as DNA methyltransferase inhibitors.
The mechanism of action of decitabine involves the inhibition of DNA methyltransferase enzymes, specifically DNMT1, which are responsible for adding methyl groups to DNA molecules. By inhibiting these enzymes, decitabine promotes DNA hypomethylation, leading to the reactivation of silenced genes and the restoration of normal cell functioning. This epigenetic modification interrupts the proliferation of abnormal cells and ultimately promotes the formation of healthy blood cells.
Decitabine is typically administered via injection into the vein, and the dosing frequency and duration may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. It is often prescribed in cycles, with breaks in between to allow for recovery and assessment of treatment response.
Possible side effects of decitabine include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, low blood cell counts, and increased susceptibility to infections. It is essential to monitor blood counts regularly during treatment.
In summary, decitabine is a medication that targets the abnormal DNA methylation patterns in myelodysplastic syndromes, restoring normal cell functioning and promoting the production of healthy blood cells.
Etymology of DECITABINE
The word "decitabine" does not have a detailed etymology, as it is a combination of two parts - "deci-" and "-tabine".
The prefix "deci-" is derived from the Latin word "decimus" meaning "tenth". In this context, it indicates the presence of a 10-carbon atom backbone in the molecular structure of decitabine.
The suffix "-tabine" is used in a few pharmaceutical names and does not have a specific etymology. It is possibly a coined term for naming purposes.
Therefore, the etymology of "decitabine" can be understood as a combination of the Latin "decimus" indicating the molecular structure and the suffix "-tabine" used in other drug names without a clear origin.
