Description
Vincristine Sulfate — Vinca Alkaloid Microtubule Disruptor (Research Grade)
Product Overview
Vincristine Sulfate is a potent vinca alkaloid widely used in cell biology, cancer research, and pharmacology. It works as a microtubule polymerization inhibitor, blocking tubulin assembly and arresting cells in metaphase. This causes mitotic arrest, induces apoptosis in rapidly dividing cells, and has made vincristine a classic tool in studies of cell division, cytoskeleton dynamics, drug resistance, and apoptosis.
Because of its potency and cytotoxic nature, this compound is strictly intended for research use only, not for therapeutic or diagnostic applications.
Key Specifications & Identity
| Property |
Description / Value |
| Synonyms / Alternate Names |
Leurocristine sulfate, NSC-67574 sulfate
|
| CAS Number |
2068-78-2
|
| Molecular Formula / Composition |
C₄₆H₅₆N₄O₁₀ · H₂SO₄ (hydrated salt)
|
| Approximate Molecular Weight |
~923.04 (salt form)
|
| Purity |
Typically ≥ 95 % (HPLC)
|
| Physical Form |
Solid / crystalline powder
|
| Solubility |
Water soluble (e.g. ~25 mg/mL with warming)
|
| Storage |
Store at −20 °C, protected from light and moisture
|
Mechanism of Action & Biological Impact
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Vincristine binds directly to tubulin subunits, preventing their polymerization into microtubules. This arrests mitotic spindle formation and halts cells in metaphase.
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Inhibition of microtubule dynamics leads to activation of mitotic checkpoint pathways, prolonged arrest, and often induction of programmed cell death (apoptosis) in susceptible cells.
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Because it targets a fundamental component of cell division, vincristine is especially effective in rapidly proliferating cells, making it a staple in anti-cancer research models.
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Note: at lower concentrations, vincristine may cause mitotic inhibition without immediate cytotoxicity, while higher exposures lead to microtubule disassembly and overt cell death.
Suggested Research Applications & Usage Notes
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Cell cycle / mitotic arrest studies
Use vincristine to synchronize cells in M phase or to probe mitotic checkpoint signaling, spindle assembly, or chromosome segregation.
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Cytotoxicity / apoptosis / drug efficacy assays
Evaluate concentration-dependent effects on cell viability, apoptotic marker induction, or sensitivity/resistance in cancer cell lines.
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Drug resistance & transporter studies
Employ vincristine to explore mechanisms of multidrug resistance (e.g. P-glycoprotein, ABC transporters) and test modulators or inhibitors of such resistance.
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Microtubule dynamics / cytoskeleton research
Use at sublethal doses to perturb microtubule stability and observe effects on cell morphology, intracellular trafficking, or microtubule-associated proteins.
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Combination / synergy experiments
Combine with other agents (DNA damage, checkpoint inhibitors, etc.) to test synthetic effects, potentiation, or rescue strategies.
Protocol Tips / Practical Considerations:
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Always check the Certificate of Analysis (COA) for batch-specific molecular weight and purity, and recalculate stock concentrations accordingly.
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Prepare stocks in DMSO or a compatible solvent, and dilute into culture medium just prior to use, minimizing solvent carryover.
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Start with a dose-response pilot to determine effective concentrations for your cell type (often in the nM to low µM range).
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Use appropriate timepoints — short exposures may show reversible arrest, while longer exposure may lead to apoptosis or other downstream effects.
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Include proper controls (vehicle, untreated, positive mitotic inhibitor) to interpret results clearly.
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Handle with care — vincristine is highly cytotoxic. Use gloves, lab coat, protection, and work in a fume hood or biosafety cabinet.
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Protect from light and avoid unnecessary freeze-thaw cycles.
Safety & Disclaimer
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For research use only. Not intended for human or veterinary use.
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Vincristine is a potent cytotoxic compound with risks upon exposure: avoid inhalation, ingestion, skin/eye contact.
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Use appropriate PPE (gloves, eye protection, lab coat) and containment measures.
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Dispose of waste in compliance with institutional and regulatory guidelines for cytotoxic chemicals.
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Observe all relevant hazard warnings (e.g. reproductive toxicity, mutagenicity, etc.) as listed in SDS / regulatory documents.
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