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Updated: Apr 17, 2026

Heterogeneity Mapping of Protein Expression in Tumors using Quantitative Immunofluorescence
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Heterogeneity Mapping of Protein Expression in Tumors using Quantitative Immunofluorescence

Published on: October 25, 2011

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Die-hard survivors: heterogeneity in apoptotic thresholds may underlie chemoresistance

Angela Ogden1, Padmashree C G Rida, Michelle D Reid

  • 1Department of Biology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30303, USA.

Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy
|February 20, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) effectively treat cancer by targeting interphase functions, not just mitosis. Understanding apoptosis resistance in tumor cells is key to improving chemotherapy and preventing relapse.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Cell Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Microtubule-targeting agents (MTAs) are crucial chemotherapeutics.
  • Their efficacy was previously attributed solely to mitotic disruption.
  • Emerging evidence indicates MTAs target interphase functions in tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the mechanisms by which MTAs target malignant cells.
  • To understand the role of apoptosis susceptibility and resistance in tumor response to MTAs.
  • To address intratumor heterogeneity in relation to chemotherapy efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of existing data on MTA mechanisms.
  • Evaluation of apoptosis priming in malignant versus non-malignant cells.
  • Consideration of intratumor heterogeneity and chemoresistance.

Main Results:

  • MTAs' primary action is increasingly recognized as targeting interphase functions.
  • Malignant cells are often more primed for apoptosis than normal cells.
  • Apoptosis-resistant clones within tumors contribute to incomplete responses and relapse.

Conclusions:

  • Intratumor heterogeneity regarding apoptotic thresholds is critical for understanding MTA efficacy.
  • Targeting apoptosis resistance, potentially with agents like BH3 mimetics, could enhance chemotherapy.
  • Improved understanding of these mechanisms can guide the design of more effective cancer treatment regimens.
Keywords:
apoptotic thresholdchemoresistanceintratumor heterogeneitymitochondrial primingtubulin inhibitors

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