Cell autophagy and apoptosis processes are of interest in drug development and contribute to the chemotherapy outcomes of patients receiving cancer treatment. The functional roles of cyclic nucleotides in cells include maintenance of metabolic homeostasis. cGMP and steroid compounds participate in apoptotic and autophagic events, and modulate the function of multi-drug resistance proteins. Endogenous steroid and cyclic nucleotide ratios change with ageing and this may initiate detrimental

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... s in cell function. This study uses a computational chemistry approach to investigate molecular similarity within chemotherapeutic and steroid compound structures. Modulators of autophagy/apoptosis and endogenous steroid structures all demonstrate molecular similarity to the structure of cGMP. Relative molecular similarity within these structures facilitates additive and synergistic treatment effects. Endogenous steroids are natural modulators of autophagy and apoptosis; concentration changes consequently have the potential to impact cancer risks.