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The Sound of Evolution
Vinblastine
Mechanism of action:
Vinblastine is a vinca alkaloid and a microtubule inhibitor. Vinblastine binds specifically to beta-tubulin and prevents the normal polymerization of alpha/beta-tubulin dimers into microtubules. As a result, microtubules cannot form properly, the mitotic spindle also fails to form normally, and the cell becomes arrested in metaphase.
Reference(s):
Starling D et al. (1976). Two ultrastructurally distinct tubulin paracrystals induced in sea-urchin eggs by vinblastine sulphate. J Cell Sci.
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