Definition:
An antifolate is a type of drug or compound that inhibits the action of folic acid (vitamin B9) in the body, which is essential for DNA synthesis and cell division. Antifolates are often used in cancer treatment to slow the growth of rapidly dividing cells.
Phonetic Pronunciation:
(an-tee-FOH-layt)
Etymological Origin:
The term "antifolate" is derived from the prefix anti-, meaning "against," and "folate," which comes from the Latin word folium, meaning "leaf," as folic acid was first isolated from spinach leaves. The term emerged in the mid-20th century with the development of drugs targeting folic acid metabolism.
Significance in Asbestos Context:
Antifolates are significant in the asbestos context because they are used in the treatment of mesothelioma, a cancer strongly associated with asbestos exposure. For example, pemetrexed, an antifolate drug, is commonly used in combination with cisplatin to treat malignant pleural mesothelioma. By targeting folic acid pathways, antifolates help to inhibit the growth of mesothelioma cells, offering a therapeutic option for this aggressive disease.
Synonyms or Related Terms:
Example Sentence:
"Patients diagnosed with mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure are often treated with antifolates like pemetrexed to slow tumor progression."
Common Misconceptions:
