To which drug class does doxorubicin belong?

Doxorubicin is classified as an anthracycline, which is a subtype of chemotherapy drug derived from the bacterium Streptomyces peucetius. Anthracyclines are known for their effectiveness against a wide range of cancers, including breast cancer, leukemia, and lymphomas. They work by intercalating into DNA, disrupting the function of the DNA and RNA synthesis, ultimately leading to cell death. This mechanism is primarily why doxorubicin is a crucial drug in the treatment of various malignancies.

In contrast, other drug classes listed have distinct mechanisms of action. Alkylating agents work by adding an alkyl group to the DNA, leading to cross-linking and preventing replication. Antimetabolites resemble naturally occurring substances, interfering with DNA or RNA synthesis by substituting or inhibiting processes essential for nucleic acid synthesis. Taxanes, such as paclitaxel and docetaxel, stabilize microtubules and prevent their disassembly, which is crucial for proper cell division. Each of these classes has unique properties and actions that differentiate them from anthracyclines like doxorubicin.