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Abstract
Cancer-related chemotherapeutics research and biochemical foundations are closely intertwined. Many chemotherapeutics exert their effects by targeting regulatory enzymes, metabolic intermediates, molecular processes, or immune-related pathways involved in cell growth and proliferation. This review examines the historical development of chemotherapeutics, from the initial use of nitrogen mustard to the advent of biological therapies. Folate antagonists, for instance, inhibit enzymes necessary for DNA synthesis. Cisplatin induces tumor cell apoptosis by crosslinking DNA bases, thereby disrupting DNA repair mechanisms. Rituximab, an anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody used to treat follicular B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma, operates through complement-mediated cytotoxicity and antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity. The study of chemotherapeutics' biological roles and mechanisms has consistently emphasized the biochemical interactions with regulatory enzymes, metabolic intermediates, molecular processes, and immune pathways during cell growth and proliferation. This review underscores the integral role of biochemical research in the evolution and effectiveness of cancer therapies.