The anticancer drug, Taxol, has been an effective chemotherapeutic agent in the fight against ovarian cancer. Which of the following represents the mechanism of action of Taxol?

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Taxol binds to microtubules and stabilizes them, preventing their depolymerization, which interferes with the normal process of cell division, particularly during mitosis.  The compound paclitaxel (the generic name for Taxol) interferes with the normal function of microtubule growth leading to increased stability of the structure. This effect of Taxol destroys the cell ability to use its cytoskeleton in a flexible manner. Specifically, Taxol binds to the tubulin protein of microtubules and locks them in place. The resulting microtubule/Taxol complex does not have the ability to disassemble. This adversely affects cell function because the shortening and lengthening of microtubules (termed dynamic instability) is necessary for their function as a transportation highway for the cell. Chromosomes, for example, rely on this property of microtubules during mitosis. Therefore, the inability of cells to organize and undertake the necessary movements of mitosis prevents cell division. Since cancer cells are rapidly proliferating cells, the action of Taxol inhibits their growth.

The Anticancer Drug, Taxol, Has Been an Effective Chemotherapeutic Agent