General Introduction
Taxus (Yew tree) is a source of the diterpenoid paclitaxel, a potent anticancer agent.
Synonyms of Taxus
Common name: Yew
Scientific name: Taxus brevifolia, Taxus baccata
Synonyms: Pacific Yew, European Yew
Biological Source
Derived from the bark of Taxus brevifolia and needles of Taxus baccata.
Family
Taxaceae
Composition
Major diterpenoid:
Paclitaxel (Taxol): The primary active compound.
Chemistry & Chemical Classes
Chemical Class: Diterpenoids.
Structure:
Paclitaxel is a complex diterpenoid with a taxane skeleton.
Therapeutic Uses
Anticancer: Used in chemotherapy for breast, ovarian, and lung cancers.
Commercial Applications
Paclitaxel is marketed as Taxol in injectable formulations.