Spindle poison

Other names[edit | edit source]

The term spindle poison is also known as a spindle toxin.

Definition[edit | edit source]

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 | edit source]

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 | edit source]

However, Spindle poisons are not yet 100% effective at ending the formation of tumors (neoplasms).

Role in Chemotherapy[edit | edit source]

Although not 100% effective, substantive therapeutic efficacy has been found in these types of chemotherapeutic treatments.

Mitotic spindle[edit | edit source]

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 | edit source]

Examples of spindle poisons include paclitaxel and vinblastine

Other examples include:

Mebendazole
Colchicine
Griseofulvin
[[Vinca alkaloid

Mechanism of action[edit | edit source]

They exert their potent anti-neoplastic effects through activation of the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC), thus arresting cells in mitosis.

Non-responders[edit | edit source]

Unfortunately, only certain cancers are susceptible to these drugs, and many patients fail to respond to treatment.

Spindle poison Resources
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