Paclitaxel, derived from the Pacific Yew Tree, has revolutionized cancer treatment. It is used in chemotherapy for various cancers, including breast, ovarian, and lung cancer. Paclitaxel works by stabilizing microtubules, preventing the normal breakdown during cell division, thereby inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. Its discovery and development have highlighted the importance of understanding the toxicological properties of natural substances for therapeutic applications.
