Spindle poison
Other names[edit]
The term spindle poison is also known as a spindle toxin.
Definition[edit]
It is a poison that disrupts cell division by affecting the protein threads that connect the centromere regions of chromosomes, known as spindles.
Effects[edit]
Spindle poisons effectively cease the production of new cells by interrupting the mitosis phase of cell division at the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC).
Limitations[edit]
However, Spindle poisons are not yet 100% effective at ending the formation of tumors (neoplasms).
Role in Chemotherapy[edit]
Although not 100% effective, substantive therapeutic efficacy has been found in these types of chemotherapeutic treatments.
Mitotic spindle[edit]
The mitotic spindle is composed of microtubules (polymerized tubulin) that aid, along with regulatory proteins; each other in the activity of appropriately segregating replicated chromosomes.
Example spindle poisons[edit]
- Examples of spindle poisons include paclitaxel and vinblastine
Other examples include:
- Mebendazole
- Colchicine
- Griseofulvin
- [[Vinca alkaloid
Mechanism of action[edit]
- They exert their potent anti-neoplastic effects through activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), thus arresting cells in mitosis.
Non-responders[edit]
- Unfortunately, only certain cancers are susceptible to these drugs, and many patients fail to respond to treatment.
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