paclitaxel poliglumex

Paclitaxel poliglumex is a macromolecular conjugate of the chemotherapeutic agent paclitaxel and poly-L-glutamic acid, designed to enhance the therapeutic index of paclitaxel. The drug leverages the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect in tumor tissues, allowing for greater accumulation in tumors due to their leaky vasculature and poor lymphatic drainage. Paclitaxel is released from the polymer backbone primarily through metabolism by lysosomal proteases such as cathepsin B, which are upregulated in many tumors. This slow release results in prolonged tumor exposure to active drug while reducing systemic toxicity compared to standard paclitaxel formulations. Paclitaxel exerts its antitumor effects by binding β-tubulin, promoting microtubule assembly, stabilizing microtubules, and preventing their disassembly—thereby inhibiting cell division. Paclitaxel poliglumex was developed as an investigational therapy for various cancers including non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), ovarian cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, and head and neck cancer.

Brand names

OpaxioXyotax

Other names

paclitaxel poliglumexCT-2103CT2103CT 2103PPX