See the DrugPatentWatch profile for albumin

Albumin binding can affect paclitaxel's cell membrane permeability by increasing its solubility and circulation time in the bloodstream, thereby enhancing its delivery to cancer cells. Paclitaxel, a chemotherapeutic drug, has low water solubility, which can limit its bioavailability. However, when paclitaxel binds to albumin, a prevalent protein in plasma, its solubility increases, facilitating its transport through the body [1].

Albumin binding also extends paclitaxel's circulation time in the bloodstream. Normally, paclitaxel is rapidly cleared from the body, primarily through liver metabolism. Binding to albumin protects paclitaxel from premature elimination, allowing it to remain in the bloodstream longer [2]. This extended circulation time increases the likelihood of paclitaxel encountering and penetrating cancer cell membranes.

Moreover, the albumin-paclitaxel complex can utilize specific receptor-mediated transcytosis, a transport mechanism that facilitates the movement of large molecules across endothelial cells [3]. This process further enhances paclitaxel's ability to cross the cell membrane and reach its target cancer cells.

In summary, albumin binding improves paclitaxel's cell membrane permeability by increasing its solubility, prolonging its circulation time, and utilizing receptor-mediated transcytosis. These factors collectively contribute to the drug's efficacy in treating various types of cancer.

Sources:
[1] DrugPatentWatch.com. (n.d.). Paclitaxel. Retrieved from <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/paclitaxel>
[2] Sparreboom, A., & van der Vight, S. I. (2013). Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic drug interactions with taxanes. Cancer treatment reviews, 39(5), 525-535.
[3] Wang, Y., & Hung, D. Z. (2017). Albumin-binding taxane derivatives: A promising strategy for cancer therapy. Journal of controlled release, 254, 159-171.