7-Hydroxy Methotrexate

7-Hydroxy Methotrexate is the metabolite of methotrexate, a cell cycle arresting agent with varying effects. Methotrexate has been reported to arrest the cell cycle in late G₁/S thus leading to the inhibition of the synthesis of DNA, RNA, thymidylates, and proteins. The main mechanism of action is reported to involve the inhibition of enzymes involved in purine metabolism which leads to the accumulation of adenosine or the suppression of intercellular adhesion molecule expression by T cells. Additionally, this compound has been observed to inhibit DHFR. Methotrexate has also been shown to modulate inflammation by promoting adenosine release or inhibiting transmethylation reactions. Methotrexate was also noted to decrease IL-1 production in adherent splenic cells.