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Microtubule-Interfering Drugs: Current and Future Roles in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer Treatment

Joan Tymon-Rosario1, Naomi N Adjei1, Dana M Roque2

  • 1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.

Cancers
|December 24, 2021
PubMed

Insights

Taxanes and epothilones are microtubule-targeting chemotherapies for epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC). Epothilones show promise in treating platinum-resistant EOC, potentially overcoming taxane resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Pharmacology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Taxanes and epothilones are microtubule-targeting chemotherapeutic agents.
  • They induce cell death by inhibiting microtubule function.
  • Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) treatment relies heavily on these agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current use and potential of taxanes and epothilones in treating EOC.
  • To explore mechanisms of resistance to these therapies.
  • To highlight the role of epothilones in overcoming taxane resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of clinical data and research on taxanes and epothilones in EOC.
  • Analysis of mechanisms of drug resistance.
  • Evaluation of ixabepilone's efficacy in platinum-resistant or refractory EOC.

Main Results:

  • Taxanes are the standard of care for front-line and recurrent EOC.
  • Epothilones, like ixabepilone, demonstrate activity in taxane-resistant EOC.
  • Ixabepilone is supported by clinical data for platinum-resistant or refractory EOC.

Conclusions:

  • Microtubule-interfering drugs are crucial in EOC treatment, alone or in combination.
  • Epothilones offer a potential therapeutic option for patients resistant to taxanes.
  • Ongoing trials will further define the role of these agents in standard EOC therapy.
Keywords:
chemotherapyepithelial ovarian cancerixabepilonemicrotentaclesmicrotubule-interfering drugspaclitaxel

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