Definition: An alkaloid isolated from the stem wood of the Chinese tree, Camptotheca acuminata. This compound selectively inhibits the nuclear enzyme DNA TOPOISOMERASES, TYPE I. Several semisynthetic analogs of camptothecin have demonstrated antitumor activity.
9-nitrocamptothecin [ 9-nitro-20(S)-camptothecin,9-nitrocamptothecin, (S)-isomer,RFS 2000,RFS-2000,RFS2000,rubitecan ] RN refers to (+-)-isomer; anti-HIV agent; DNA Topoisomerases, Type I inhibitor