Microtubule Targeting in Cancer Treatment

Abstract

Microtubules are considered among the most effective targets in cancer treatment. They are involved in various cells functions, especially in the process of cell division and the formation of the mitotic spindle. As a result of these functions, a class of anticancer agents known as microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) have been developed throughout the years. These chemotherapeutic drugs disturb the spindle apparatus, terminating the cell cycle at the metaphase-anaphase transition leading to cell death. Plant-based MTAs, notably the taxane paclitaxel (PTX) and some vinca alkaloids, are essential components in the chemotherapeutic treatment of various types of cancer. Nevertheless, MTAs have many limitations that render them less ideal in clinical settings. For example, only a small fraction of the chemotherapeutic drug reaches the tumor cells, hence requiring the administration of a larger dose, consequently causing toxic side effects. Therefore, several natural and synthetic, new-generation MTA agents and novel techniques are being investigated to overcome some of the challenges associated with traditional MTAs. This chapter will provide an overview of microtubules, current microtubule-targeting agents and their mechanisms, and future approaches for microtubule targeting in cancer therapy.