Paper II
2014 September (Supplementary) (2010 Scheme) · 40 marks · 120 min

Question

Taxanes in cancer chemotherapy.

Q73 marksShort Notes

Answer

Taxanes are plant-derived (Taxus/yew tree) anticancer drugs.

Examples

  • Paclitaxel, Docetaxel

Mechanism of action

  • Bind to tubulin and promote microtubule polymerization/stabilization, preventing their normal depolymerization
  • This disrupts the dynamic equilibrium needed for mitotic spindle function, arresting cells in the M-phase (opposite mechanism to vinca alkaloids, which prevent polymerization)

Uses

  • Ovarian cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Non-small cell lung cancer

Adverse effects

  • Hypersensitivity reactions (paclitaxel — due to its Cremophor EL vehicle; premedication with corticosteroids/antihistamines required)
  • Myelosuppression (neutropenia)
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Alopecia

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