Paklitakselin

Paklitakselin, also known by its brand name Taxol, is a chemotherapy medication used primarily in the treatment of various types of cancer. It belongs to the class of drugs called taxanes, which interfere with the normal growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. Paklitakselin was first isolated from the bark of the Pacific yew tree (*Taxus brevifolia*) in the late 1960s by researchers at the United States National Cancer Institute (NCI). Its development marked a significant milestone in cancer treatment, as it became one of the first plant-derived compounds to be successfully synthesized for clinical use.

Paklitakselin works by stabilizing microtubules, which are components of the cell’s cytoskeleton, preventing them from breaking down during cell division. This disrupts the process of mitosis, halting cell replication and ultimately leading to cell death, particularly in rapidly dividing cancer cells. The drug is administered intravenously and is often used in combination with other chemotherapeutic agents to enhance its effectiveness.

Common cancers treated with paklitakselin include ovarian, breast, lung, and cervical cancers, as well as certain types of lymphoma and sarcoma. It is also used in metastatic (spread) and recurrent forms of these diseases. While effective, paklitakselin can cause side effects such as peripheral neuropathy (tingling or numbness in the hands and feet), hair loss, nausea, fatigue, and allergic reactions. Severe allergic responses may require pre-treatment with corticosteroids and antihistamines.

Due to its limited natural supply from the Pacific yew tree, paklitakselin is now primarily produced through semi-synthetic methods using a precursor derived from a related yew species (*Taxus baccata*). This approach ensures a more sustainable and consistent supply of the drug. Clinical research continues to explore its use in combination with other therapies, including immunotherapy, to improve treatment outcomes for cancer patients.