For the first time, Galaxon researchers were able to synthesize novataxel, a novel anti-mitotic compound, using yeast by cloning a set of genes into the organism.
Novataxel (baccatin III di-benzyl-β-phenylisoserine ester) is a synthetic derivative of paclitaxel, which was originallyisolatedfrom the bark of the Pacific yew tree, Taxus brevifolia. The only difference between their chemical structures is the presence of another benzoyl group on novataxel, replacing the hydroxyl group. This extra benzoyl group leads to higher hydrophobicity of novataxel than that of paclitaxel, which in turn allows for higher affinity and stability of binding of novataxel to β-tubulin in microtubules structure, thus leading to higher effectiveness of the drug in inhibiting tumor cells growth.
The novel compound, novataxel, which is a derivative of paclitaxel, binds to microtubules and stabilizes their structure by shifting the dynamic equilibrium between soluble and insoluble tubulin. This enhances microtubule assembly, resulting in inhibition of cellular replication. While the cells remain viable, paclitaxel inhibits cell processes that are dependent on microtubule turnover, such as mitosis, migration, endocytosis and secretion
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