Analyzing selected FDA approved drugs for effects on template switch mutagenesis in E. coli

Quasipalindromes (QPs) are DNA sequences that are imperfectly mirrored, known to form secondary structures like hairpins and cruciforms. These sites have been linked with a specific type of mutation called template-switch mutation (TSM). Certain drugs like 5-azaC, AZT, and ciprofloxacin are known to induce TSM. This study aims to assess the impact of five FDA-approved drugs—three antitumor drugs (CPT-11, Doxorubicin hydrochloride, and Gemcitabine hydrochloride) and two anti-inflammatories (Ibuprofen and Dexamethasone)—on template-switch mutagenesis. The findings reveal no statistically significant effects on frequency of mutations after treatment with Gemcitabine hydrochloride, Ibuprofen, Dexamethasone, or Doxorubicin hydrochloride. However, CPT-11 treatment showed a notable decrease in TSM, suggesting a potential role in disrupting the template-switching process.