Description
P-glycoprotein (P-gp, Multidrug Resistance Protein 1 (MDR1), EC 3.6.3.44) is a member of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) ATPase superfamily of transmembrane transporter proteins. P-gp has an extremely broad substrate specificity and is capable of transporting a vast array of neutral and anionic lipophilic molecules. P-gp strongly affects the oral absorption, tissue distribution and excretion of many drugs and prevents certain lipophilic drugs from penetrating the blood brain barrier. Overexpression of P-gp confers tumor cells with resistance to chemically and pharmacologically distinct chemotherapeutic drugs (such as doxorubicin, vincristine and paclitaxel) by actively pumping them out of cells. Induction of P-gp expression is a frequent cause of treatment failure and tumor-targeted delivery of Pgp inhibitors is being investigated as a strategy for overcoming chemotherapy resistance