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The Role of SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein in the Growth of Cervical Cancer Cells

Conner M Willson1, Marco Lequio2, Ziwen Zhu2

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Pathology, Des Moines University, Des Moines, IA, U.S.A.

Anticancer Research
|April 27, 2024
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

SARS-CoV-2 spike protein inhibits cervical cancer cell growth and induces apoptosis. This effect is linked to increased p53 and TRAIL expression, suggesting potential therapeutic avenues for cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) is central to vaccines and infection, but its role in cancer pathogenesis is largely unknown.
  • Understanding SP's direct effects on neoplasia is crucial given its widespread exposure through vaccination and infection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the direct impact of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SP) on SiHa cervical cancer cells.
  • To determine if SP influences cancer cell proliferation and apoptosis.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized clonogenic cell survival and quick proliferation assays to assess cell growth.
  • Employed caspase-3 activity kits to measure apoptosis induction.
  • Conducted RT-PCR and immunohistochemistry to explore underlying molecular mechanisms.

Main Results:

  • SARS-CoV-2 SP significantly inhibited the proliferation of SiHa cervical cancer cells.
  • SP treatment led to increased apoptosis in SiHa cells.
  • Observed up-regulation of p53 (anti-proliferative) and TRAIL (pro-apoptotic) molecules.

Conclusions:

  • SARS-CoV-2 SP demonstrates anti-cancer properties against cervical cancer cells by promoting apoptosis and inhibiting growth.
  • The observed effects are mediated through the up-regulation of p53 and TRAIL.
  • Further research is warranted to explore SP's effects on diverse cancer and normal cell types.
Keywords:
SARS-CoV-2TRAILapoptosiscervical cancerp53proliferationspike protein

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