Effects of Actinomycin D on Purine Ribonucleotide Metabolism in Ehrlich Ascites Tumor Cells In Vitro

Abstract

Actinomycin D treatment of Ehrlich ascites tumor cells in vitro causes slight to moderate inhibition of purine ribonucleotide synthesis de novo and from purine bases, and strong inhibition of inosinate dehydrogenase activity. These effects have the same dose–response relationship as inhibition of RNA synthesis by this drug. Daunomycin has similar effects on purine metabolism at a concentration that substantially inhibits nucleic acid synthesis. Actinomycin D treatment leads to elevated intracellular concentrations of ATP and GTP, and the effects of this drug on purine metabolism are believed to be mediated by these purine ribonucleoside triphosphates.