What does the term MDR1 refer to in chemotherapy?

MDR1 refers to the Multidrug Resistance Gene 1, which plays a critical role in the development of drug resistance in cancer therapies. This gene encodes for a protein known as P-glycoprotein, which functions as a transporter that pumps various drugs out of the cells. When overexpressed, this protein can reduce the efficacy of chemotherapy drugs by limiting their intracellular concentrations, allowing cancer cells to survive and proliferate despite treatment. Understanding the role of MDR1 is essential in chemotherapy management, as it highlights the challenges posed by multidrug resistance in successfully treating cancer and necessitates ongoing research and development of strategies to overcome this resistance.