Cytokines and eicosanoids in cancer drug toxicity

Article Abstract:

Eicosanoids and cytokines such as interleukins-1 and -2 activate the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis without eliciting tolerance responses. The reactions caused by the anticancer agents are similar to those of hydroxyurea which induces inflammation and immune system mechanisms. However, these reactions are considered lethal to hypophysectomized and adrenalectomized animals due to the activation of the phospholipase A2. Glucocorticoids inhibit the harmful effects caused by the cytokine-stimulation of the body's defense mechanisms. Similarly, glucocorticoids counteract eicosanoid reactions via lipocortin induction and cyclooxygenase suppression.

Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, Interleukin-1, Hydroxyurea, Eicosanoic acid

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Cytokines and neuropathology

Article Abstract:

Recent research in immunology has centered on cytokine expression in neuropathology. This substance is secreted by glial cells and is observed to mediate immune processes against neural injury. Interleukin 1 is shown to promote T cell proliferation and the cytotoxic properties of tissue necrosis factor is noted. Platelet-derived growth factor aids in scar formation and interleukin 6 promotes antibody formation. The interplay between brain immune cells and cytokines is also evident in viral pathologies that cause neuronal degeneration, like AIDS and cytomegaloviral infections.

Brain, Inflammation, Immune system

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Mechanism of action of taxol

Article Abstract:

Taxol's antitumor activity makes it a viable cancer chemotherapeutic drug to develop. Taxol can be obtained naturally from yew trees or synthetically from taxol analogues such as taxotere. The drug's ability to shift the state of the tubulin equilibrium in favor of stable microtubules causes the polymerization of leukimic tubulins into inactive microtubule bundles. Taxol thus interferes with the mitotic division of eukaryotic cells, hindering replication and proliferation of neoplastic tissues.

Health aspects, Research, Cell division, Tubulins, Tubulin, Taxol

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