Molecular Playground/Taxol: Difference between revisions
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Docetaxel (Taxotere, sanofi-aventis) is a semi-synthetic analog of Taxol that was discovered during the search for a more easily produced taxane anti-cancer agent. The hydroxyl group modification on docetaxel leads to an increase in the lipid solubility of the drug. It was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and is currently used in the treatment of breast, stomach and prostate cancer. Currently, Taxotere is produced from paclitaxel precursors which are extracted from ''Taxus brevifolia'', the readily available Wester Yew. | Docetaxel (Taxotere, sanofi-aventis) is a semi-synthetic analog of Taxol that was discovered during the search for a more easily produced taxane anti-cancer agent. The hydroxyl group modification on docetaxel leads to an increase in the lipid solubility of the drug. It was first approved by the FDA in 1996 and is currently used in the treatment of breast, stomach and prostate cancer. Currently, Taxotere is produced from paclitaxel precursors which are extracted from ''Taxus brevifolia'', the readily available Wester Yew. | ||
Both Taxol and Taxotere bind to cell microtubules, promoting their assembly into bundles and preventing cell mitosis. This eventually leads to the death of the cells. | Both Taxol and Taxotere bind to cell microtubules, promoting their assembly into bundles and preventing cell mitosis. This eventually leads to the death of the cells. Although the mechanism of action for both drugs is the same, Taxotere has been found to be twice as potent as Taxol. | ||
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