Anthracycline-induced cardiotoxicity is due in large part to the generation of free radicals from doxorubicin through mitochondrial redox cycling of doxorubicin in the cardiomyocyte, which ultimately results in left ventricular dysfunction, and in the most severe cases, congestive heart failure.

What is the mechanism for anthracyclines cardiotoxicity?

The main mechanism of anthracycline cardiotoxicity is now thought to be through inhibition of topoisomerase 2β resulting in activation of cell death pathways and inhibition of mitochondrial biogenesis.

How is doxorubicin cardiotoxic?

Doxorubicin induces cardiotoxicity through upregulation of death receptors mediated apoptosis in cardiomyocytes.