Mitosis inhibitors

Cytostatic group of substances characterized by the inhibition of mitosis. Mitosis can be inhibited either by blocking the formation of the nuclear spindle(vinca alkaloids) or by blocking the degradation of the nuclear spindle(taxanes). The nuclear spindle itself consists of microtubules, i.e. of tubular aggregated tubulin dimers (alpha- and beta-tubulin). The common point of attack in mitosis inhibitors is the beta-tubulin subunit.

Vinca alkaloids

• Vincristine
• Vinblastine

Taxanes

• Docetaxel
• Paclitaxel
• Cabazitaxel

Vinca alkaloids bind specifically to beta-tubulin and block polymerization with alpha-tubulin.

Taxanes attach themselves to the beta-tubulin subunit of the microtubules, stabilizing them by preventing depolarization. This promotes the formation of atypical microtubules. The degradation of the mitosis spindle is prevented.