2′-Deoxyuridine CAS:951-78-0

2'-Deoxyuridine (dUrd) is a key nucleoside that serves as a fundamental component in the realm of molecular biology and biochemistry. Structurally, it is akin to uridine but differs by the absence of a hydroxyl group at the 2' carbon of the ribose sugar, resulting in a more stable form suitable for incorporation into DNA. In DNA, dUrd pairs with adenine, forming critical base pairs that contribute to the integrity and stability of the genetic code. The significance of 2'-deoxyuridine extends beyond its role as a nucleotide building block; it is also pivotal in cellular metabolism. dUrd can be phosphorylated to form deoxyuridine triphosphate (dUTP), which participates in DNA synthesis and repair processes. The enzyme thymidylate synthase converts dUMP (the dephosphorylated form of dUrd) to deoxythymidine monophosphate (dTMP), allowing for the formation of thymidine, another essential nucleotide in DNA. In the context of cancer research, 2'-deoxyuridine is valuable due to its potential therapeutic applications. Certain chemotherapeutic agents, such as fluorouracil, target the pathways involving dUrd, leading to disruptions in DNA synthesis and ultimately inhibiting tumor growth. By understanding how dUrd functions within these pathways, researchers can develop more effective treatment regimens that leverage its biochemical properties. Moreover, 2'-deoxyuridine finds utility in antiviral therapies. It can be incorporated into viral genomes during replication, effectively disrupting viral propagation. This characteristic positions it as a promising candidate in developing antiviral drugs aimed at infections caused by viruses that utilize DNA replication mechanisms. Overall, 2'-deoxyuridine is an essential nucleoside with diverse implications in DNA metabolism, cancer therapeutics, and antiviral strategies. Its unique structural properties enable crucial functions in biological systems, making it a focal point for ongoing research and development in pharmaceutical applications and molecular biology. As our understanding of its mechanisms deepens, 2'-deoxyuridine may play an even more prominent role in advancing medical science and therapeutic interventions.