Pharmaceutical Applications

Biocatalysis of a Paclitaxel Analogue: Conversion of Baccatin III to N-Debenzoyl-N-(2-furoyl)paclitaxel and Characterization of an Amino Phenylpropanoyl CoA Transferase

“…Since its approval for refractory ovarian cancer in 1992, the demand and production milestones for paclitaxel (Taxol) ( 1 ) and its derivatives have increased. Continued inclusion of paclitaxel in regimens against more cancer types, including several combination therapies and applications in heart restenosis, largely contribute to the increased demand. − The primary production resources of paclitaxel to keep up with demand are Taxus plant cell fermentation (PCF) and semisynthetic methods. , Despite these production efforts, paclitaxel and its analogues often go through cycles of shortages as shown occasionally on various drug shortages lists. − These shortages linked with high demand, manufacturing challenges, shortages of raw materials, stockpiling by large hospitals, and other economic disincentives can negatively affect patient health care. − …”