SN-38 glucuronide, also known as SN-38G, is an inactive metabolite of the anticancer molecule Irinotecan. It has known toxic effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Irinotecan is a topoisomerase I inhibitor used in research for colon and rectal cancer. SN-38 glucuronide can be reactivated by gut microbial β-glucuronidase enzymes, which remove the glucuronic acid moiety, thus increasing its toxic effects on the intestine.
- Inactive metabolite of Irinotecan.
- Has toxic effects on the gastrointestinal tract.
- Can be reactivated by gut microbial β-glucuronidase enzymes.
- Relevant in the study of colon and rectal cancer.
- Cells metabolizing SN38 to SN38-G show increased resistance to extracellular SN38.