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Changes in survivin messenger RNA level during chemotherapy treatment in ovarian cancer cells

Zehua Wang1, Yanhua Xie, Hongbo Wang

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Jiefong Dadoo, Wuhan, China. zehuawang@163.net

Cancer Biology & Therapy
|June 23, 2005
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Changes in survivin gene expression correlate with chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer. Survivin may serve as a biomarker for predicting chemo-resistance to treatments like taxanes and platinum compounds.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Ovarian cancer cell sensitivity to chemotherapy is a critical factor in treatment success.
  • The anti-apoptosis gene survivin plays a role in regulating cellular responses to chemotherapy drugs.
  • Understanding survivin's role can help predict and overcome chemo-resistance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the role of the anti-apoptosis gene, survivin, in regulating ovarian cancer cell sensitivity to taxanes and platinum compounds.
  • To determine if survivin expression levels can predict chemo-resistance in ovarian cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Human epithelial ovarian cancer cell lines (A2780 and A2780/DDP) were used.
  • Cells were treated with cisplatin (DDP) and Taxol.
  • Survivin and mdr1 gene expression was analyzed using RT-PCR.
  • Apoptosis was measured by flow cytometry.

Main Results:

  • Survivin mRNA levels decreased after DDP treatment in sensitive cells but were higher in DDP-resistant cells.
  • Taxol treatment also led to decreased survivin mRNA levels.
  • Apoptosis rates increased significantly in sensitive cells but remained low in resistant cells.
  • A2780/DDP cells showed resistance to DDP, indicated by a lower apoptosis rate.

Conclusions:

  • Changes in survivin mRNA levels are linked to chemotherapy-induced apoptosis in ovarian cancer.
  • Survivin expression may serve as a biological indicator for chemo-resistance in ovarian cancer.
  • This finding has implications for personalized treatment strategies.

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