Microtubule inhibitors

Question 1

Paclitaxel, other

taxanes

Answer 1

Class: microtubule inhibitors

MOA: Hyperstabilize polymerized
microtubules in M phase so
that mitotic spindle cannot
break down (anaphase cannot
occur).

Clinical use: Ovarian and breast carcinomas

Adverse effects: Myelosuppression, neuropathy,
hypersensitivity.
Taxes stabilize society

Question 2

Vincristine, vinblastine

Answer 2

Class: microtubule inhibitors

MOA: Vinca alkaloids that bind
β-tubulin and inhibit
its polymerization into
microtubules --> prevent
mitotic spindle formation
(M-phase arrest).

Clinical use: Solid tumors, leukemias,
Hodgkin and non-Hodgkin
lymphomas

Adverse effects: Vincristine: neurotoxicity
(areflexia, peripheral neuritis),
constipation (including
paralytic ileus). Crisps the
nerves.
Vinblastine: bone marrow
suppression. Blasts the bone
marrow.