Taxanes

Definition

Taxanes are a class of chemotherapeutic drugs that stabilize microtubules, preventing their disassembly and thereby inhibiting cell division. They are commonly used in the treatment of various cancers, including breast and ovarian cancer.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Taxanes work by binding to tubulin, stabilizing microtubules and disrupting mitotic spindle formation.
2. Common taxanes include paclitaxel and docetaxel.
3. Taxanes are administered intravenously and can cause side effects such as neutropenia and peripheral neuropathy.
4. Resistance to taxanes can develop through various mechanisms, including alterations in tubulin or increased drug efflux.
5. Pre-medication is often required to manage hypersensitivity reactions associated with taxane administration.

Review Questions

• What mechanism do taxanes use to inhibit cancer cell division?
• Name two common taxane drugs used in chemotherapy.
• What are some potential side effects of using taxanes?

Related terms

Microtubules: Cylindrical structures made of tubulin that are essential for cell division.

Neutropenia:

A condition characterized by an abnormally low number of neutrophils in the blood, commonly a side effect of chemotherapy.

Paclitaxel:

A chemotherapeutic drug belonging to the taxane class, used to treat various cancers.