ABSTRACT
The taxanes are a new class of anticancer drug of which Taxol® (paclitaxel) is the first clinically effective representative. Its clinical activity has been observed in patients with ovarian, breast, and non-small cell lung carcinoma.1,2 Taxotere, a Taxol derivative (Figure 1), is currently undergoing clinical evaluation with some early successes noted.3,4 As we review the preclinical activities of Taxol and other taxanes, it will be of interest to note which of their many biological effects correlate well with in vivo antitumor activity, and, when available, the specific clinical activities observed. Analyzing the correlations between in vitro and in vivo activities, and clinical efficacy, may provide useful insights as to how best to apply taxanes clinically, and how to select from among the many derivatives those worthy of additional consideration and development.
