Chemotherapy Biotherapy Certification ONS Practice Testq

What is the main action of mitotic inhibitors in cancer treatment?

1. Altering cellular metabolism

2. Binding to microtubular proteins

3. Inhibiting protein synthesis

4. Blocking hormone receptors

The correct answer is: Binding to microtubular proteins

Mitotic inhibitors primarily work by binding to microtubular proteins, which are essential components of the cell's cytoskeleton. During cell division, microtubules play a critical role in forming the mitotic spindle, which is necessary for the separation of chromosomes. By interfering with the function of these proteins, mitotic inhibitors prevent the proper formation and functioning of the mitotic spindle, leading to the disruption of mitosis. This ultimately results in the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, making mitotic inhibitors effective agents in cancer treatment. While altering cellular metabolism, inhibiting protein synthesis, and blocking hormone receptors are important mechanisms for different classes of cancer therapies, they do not represent the primary action of mitotic inhibitors. The specificity of mitotic inhibitors in targeting microtubules distinguishes them from other treatment options and contributes to their unique role in halting the growth of rapidly dividing cancer cells.