Which of the following is a chemotherapeutic drug obtained from marine source?
1. adriamycin
2. avastin
3. trabectedin
4. abraxane

Introduction

Chemotherapy is a vital part of cancer treatment, with several drugs coming from diverse sources, including marine organisms. One such drug is trabectedin, which is derived from marine sources and plays a significant role in treating various cancers. In this article, we’ll dive into the origins, uses, and impact of trabectedin in the fight against cancer.

What is Trabectedin?

Trabectedin is a chemotherapeutic drug originally isolated from the marine sponge Ecteinascidia turbinata. It is used primarily to treat soft tissue sarcoma and ovarian cancer. The drug has a unique mechanism of action, which distinguishes it from many other chemotherapeutic agents.

How Is Trabectedin Obtained?

Trabectedin is obtained from marine organisms, specifically from a species of tunicate (a marine invertebrate) called Ecteinascidia turbinata. This species, found in the Caribbean Sea, produces trabectedin as a natural defense against predators, which is then harvested for pharmaceutical use. Its discovery opened new avenues in marine biotechnology and cancer research.

Mechanism of Action

Trabectedin works by binding to the DNA in cancer cells, disrupting the structure and preventing the cells from dividing and growing. It targets the minor groove of DNA, leading to the formation of adducts that interfere with the normal function of the cell cycle.

Clinical Applications

Trabectedin is commonly used in treating:

• Soft Tissue Sarcoma (STS): A group of cancers that develop in the connective tissues, such as muscles, fat, and blood vessels.

• Ovarian Cancer: Especially in cases where other treatments have failed.

Its effectiveness, particularly for patients who have not responded to other therapies, has made it an important option in cancer treatment.

Conclusion

Trabectedin is a prime example of how marine sources can be harnessed for medical purposes, particularly in the field of cancer treatment. Its unique action mechanism, combined with its origin from marine organisms, makes it an exciting and important tool in the fight against cancer.

With ongoing research, more discoveries like trabectedin are expected to emerge from the oceans, potentially offering novel treatments for various diseases.