What is the primary mechanism of action for chemotherapy agents?

The primary mechanism of action for chemotherapy agents is to damage DNA or interfere with cell division. Chemotherapy agents are designed to target rapidly dividing cells, which is characteristic of many cancer cells. These agents can disrupt the DNA structure or inhibit the processes involved in cell division, such as mitosis. By doing so, they prevent the cancer cells from proliferating and, ultimately, lead to their death.

While inhibiting protein synthesis, boosting immune response against tumors, and enhancing blood supply to tumors are all important aspects of cancer treatment or biological processes, they do not represent the primary mechanism through which most chemotherapy agents function. Instead, these therapies might complement chemotherapy or serve different purposes in a comprehensive cancer treatment regimen.