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Published on: August 25, 2021
Survivin and Tumorigenesis: Molecular Mechanisms and Therapeutic Strategies
Xun Chen1, Ning Duan1, Caiguo Zhang2
11. Hong-Hui Hospital, Xi'an Jiaotong University, College of Medicine, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China, 710054.
Abstract:
Survivin is the smallest member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, which has key roles in regulating cell division and inhibiting apoptosis by blocking caspase activation. Survivin is highly expressed in most human cancers, such as lung, pancreatic and breast cancers, relative to normal tissues. Aberrant survivin expression is associated with tumor cell proliferation, progression, angiogenesis, therapeutic resistance, and poor prognosis. Studies on the underlying molecular mechanisms indicate that survivin is involved in the regulation of cytokinesis and cell cycle progression, as well as participates in a variety of signaling pathways such as the p53, Wnt, hypoxia, transforming growth factor, and Notch signaling pathways. In this review, recent progress in understanding the molecular basis of survivin is discussed. Therapeutic strategies targeting survivin in preclinical studies are also briefly summarized.
Insights
Survivin, a key protein in cell division and apoptosis, is highly expressed in cancers. Understanding its molecular basis and targeting it offers potential therapeutic strategies for various cancers.
Area of Science:
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Survivin is the smallest inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP), crucial for cell division and apoptosis inhibition by blocking caspase activation.
- Elevated survivin expression is observed in numerous human cancers, including lung, pancreatic, and breast cancers, compared to normal tissues.
- Aberrant survivin expression correlates with increased tumor cell proliferation, progression, angiogenesis, therapeutic resistance, and poorer patient prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advancements in understanding the molecular mechanisms of survivin.
- To summarize preclinical therapeutic strategies targeting survivin.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on survivin's molecular basis.
- Compilation of data on survivin's role in signaling pathways.
- Summary of preclinical therapeutic approaches targeting survivin.
Main Results:
- Survivin regulates cytokinesis and cell cycle progression.
- Survivin interacts with multiple signaling pathways, including p53, Wnt, hypoxia, transforming growth factor, and Notch.
- Preclinical studies show promise for survivin-targeted therapies.
Conclusions:
- Survivin's multifaceted roles in cancer necessitate further investigation.
- Targeting survivin presents a viable strategy for cancer therapy development.
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