Methotrexate Resistance

Methotraxate is one of the drugs often used in chemotherapy. It interferes with folate metabolism by acting as a competitive inhibitor of the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase. Without this enzyme, the cells are starved for tetrahydrofolate, and unable to make purines (adenine, guanine) and dTPM. This is especially toxic to fast-growing cells, like cancer cells.

How does a cancer become resistant to this drug?
( answer )

Lab Dx III Review for Final Exam

LAB Dx III Spring 2009 FINAL EXAM STUDY OBJECTIVES
( from K's start, my answers evolving )