Overview of role of survivin in cancer: expression, regulation, functions, and its potential as a therapeutic target

Survivin holds significant importance as a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family due to its predominant expression in tumours rather than normal terminally differentiated adult tissues. The high expression level of survivin in tumours is closely linked to chemotherapy resistance, heightened tumour recurrence, and increased tumour aggressiveness and serves as a negative prognostic factor for cancer patients. Consequently, survivin has emerged as a promising therapeutic target for cancer treatment. In this review, we delve into the various biological characteristics of survivin in cancers and its pivotal role in maintaining immune system homeostasis. Additionally, we explore different therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting survivin.

Survivin as a potential biomarker in the diagnosis of bladder cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Early detection, diagnosis, and treatment take on critical significance in preventing and treating bladder cancer. As indicated by numerous studies, survivin can serve as a biomarker of bladder cancer, whereas the results of a wide variety of studies have been controversial. This paper is to assess the accuracy of survivin in the diagnosis of bladder cancer by a meta-analysis. The studies regarding the diagnosis of bladder cancer using survivin were systematically retrieved from the CNKI, WanFang, CBM, VIP, Web of science, cochrane library and pubmed were extracted, and the literature quality was assessed. Meta-analysis was conducted using STATA 16.0 MP. 2,082 relevant studies were searched, and 40 studies were finally covered for meta-analysis. The pooled specificity and pooled sensitivity of survivin mRNA was 0.95 (95%CI: 0.91, 0.97) and 0.94 (95%CI: 0.88, 0.97). The pooled specificity and pooled sensitivity of survivin protein reached 0.95 (95%CI: 0.90, 0.97) and 0.87 (95%CI: 0.78, 0.92). The pooled positive likelihood ratio, pooled negative likelihood ratio, the area under the curve, and diagnostic odds ratio for survivin mRNA reached 17.7 (95%CI: 10.3, 30.6), 0.07 (95%CI: 0.04, 0.12), 0.98 (95%CI: 0.97, 0.99) and 266 (95%CI: 114, 621), respectively. For survivin protein was 16.4 (95%CI: 7.9, 33.9), 0.14 (95%CI: 0.08, 0.24), 0.97 (95%CI: 0.95, 0.98) and 117 (95%CI: 38, 357), respectively. Survivin takes on great significance in diagnosing bladder cancer. However, due to some limitations in the number and quality of covered studies, this conclusion should be validated through additional higher quality clinical studies.

The noncanonical function of borealin, a component of chromosome passenger complex, promotes glycolysis via stabilization of survivin in squamous cell carcinoma cells

The chromosome passenger complex (CPC) is a kinase complex formed by Aurora B, borealin, survivin and inner centromere protein (INCENP). The CPC is active during mitosis and contributes to proper chromosome segregation via the phosphorylation of various substrates. Overexpression of each CPC component has been reported in most cancers. However, its significance remains unclear, as only survivin is known to confer chemoresistance. This study showed that the overexpression of borealin, a CPC component, stabilized survivin protein depending on its interaction with survivin. Unexpectedly, the accumulation of survivin by borealin overexpression did not affect the well-characterized functions of survivin, such as chemoresistance and cell proliferation. Interestingly, the overexpression of borealin promoted lactate production but not the overexpression of the deletion mutant that lacks the ability to bind to survivin. Consistent with these findings, the expression levels of glycolysis-related genes were enhanced in borealin-overexpressing cancer cells. Meanwhile, the overexpression of survivin alone did not promote lactate production. Overall, the accumulation of the borealin-survivin complex promoted glycolysis in squamous cell carcinoma cells. This mechanism may contribute to cancer progression via excessive lactate production.

A validation strategy to assess the role of phase separation as a determinant of macromolecular localization

Liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) of putative assembly scaffolds has been proposed to drive the biogenesis of membraneless compartments. LLPS scaffolds are usually identified through in vitro LLPS assays with single macromolecules (homotypic), but the predictive value of these assays remains poorly characterized. Here, we apply a strategy to evaluate the robustness of homotypic LLPS assays. When applied to the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC), which undergoes LLPS in vitro and localizes to centromeres to promote chromosome biorientation, LLPS propensity in vitro emerged as an unreliable predictor of subcellular localization. In vitro CPC LLPS in aqueous buffers was enhanced by commonly used crowding agents. Conversely, diluted cytomimetic media dissolved condensates of the CPC and of several other proteins. We also show that centromeres do not seem to nucleate LLPS, nor do they promote local, spatially restrained LLPS of the CPC. Our strategy can be adapted to purported LLPS scaffolds of other membraneless compartments.

Targeted inhibition of colorectal cancer proliferation: The dual-modulatory role of 2,4-DTBP on anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and Survivin proteins

The anti-apoptotic proteins, Bcl-2 and Survivin, are consistently overexpressed in numerous human malignancies, notably in colorectal cancer. 2,4-Di-tert-butylphenol (2,4-DTBP) is a naturally occurring phenolic compound known for its diverse biological activities, including anti-cancer properties. The mechanism behind 2,4-DTBP-induced inhibition of cell proliferation and apoptosis in human colorectal cancer cells, specifically regarding Bcl-2 and Survivin, remains to be elucidated. In this study, we employed both in silico and in vitro methodologies to underpin this interaction at the molecular level. Molecular docking demonstrated a substantial binding affinity of 2,4-DTBP towards Bcl-2 (ΔG = -9.8 kcal/mol) and Survivin (ΔG = -5.6 kcal/mol), suggesting a potential inhibitory effect. Further, molecular dynamic simulations complemented by MM-GBSA calculations confirmed the significant binding of 2,4-DTBP with Bcl-2 (dGbind = -54.85 ± 6.79 kcal/mol) and Survivin (dGbind = -32.36 ± 1.29 kcal/mol). In vitro assays using HCT116 colorectal cancer cells revealed that 2,4-DTBP inhibited proliferation and promoted apoptosis in both a dose- and time-dependent manner. Fluorescence imaging and scanning electron microscopy illustrated the classical features associated with apoptosis upon 2,4-DTBP exposure. Cell cycle analysis through flow cytometry highlighted a G1 phase arrest and apoptosis assay demonstrated increased apoptotic cell population. Notably, western blotting results indicated a decreased expression of Bcl-2 and Survivin post-treatment. Considering the cytoprotective roles of Bcl-2 and Survivin through the inhibition of mitochondrial dysfunction, our findings of disrupted mitochondrial bioenergetics, characterized by reduced ATP production and oxygen consumption, further accentuate the functional impairment of these proteins. Overall, the integration of in silico and in vitro data suggests that 2,4-DTBP holds promise as a therapeutic agent targeting Bcl-2 and Survivin in colorectal cancer.

Oxidative tryptamine dimers from Corynebacterium durum directly target survivin to induce AIF-mediated apoptosis in cancer cells

Accumulating evidence indicates that microbial communities in the human body crucially affect health through the production of chemical messengers. However, the relationship between human microbiota and cancer has been underexplored. As a result of a biochemical investigation of the commensal oral microbe, Corynebacterium durum, we identified the non-enzymatic transformation of tryptamine into an anticancer compound, durumamide A (1). The structure of 1 was determined using LC-MS and NMR data analysis as bis(indolyl)glyoxylamide, which was confirmed using one-pot synthesis and X-ray crystallographic analysis, suggesting that 1 is an oxidative dimer of tryptamine. Compound 1 displayed cytotoxic activity against various cancer cell lines with IC50 values ranging from 25 to 35 μM. A drug affinity responsive target stability assay revealed that survivin is the direct target protein responsible for the anticancer effect of 1, which subsequently induces apoptosis-inducing factor (AIF)-mediated apoptosis. Inspired by the chemical structure and bioactivity of 1, a new derivative, durumamide B (2), was synthesized using another indole-based neurotransmitter, serotonin. The anticancer properties of 2 were similar to those of 1; however, it was less active. These findings reinforce the notion of human microbiota-host interplay by showing that 1 is naturally produced from the human microbial metabolite, tryptamine, which protects the host against cancer.

Lymphopenia associated with survivin and its downstream pathway in COVID-19 serving as a potential route in COVID-19 pathogenesis

PURPOSE

Starting in 2019, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused an epidemic that was growing rapidly and has harmed millions of people globally. It has been demonstrated that survivin regulates lymphocyte survival, a main route involved in COVID-19 pathogenesis. Survivin belongs to the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family, and its primary functions comprise regulating mitosis and inhibiting apoptosis. Since lower survivin expression has been shown to increase the sensitivity of lymphocytes to apoptotic induction, we looked into the function of survivin and its corresponding pathways in COVID-19 pathogenesis.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The expression of survivin, X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), caspases 3, 7, 9, and poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) was evaluated at both mRNA and protein levels in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) derived from healthy donors and patients with severe and moderate COVID-19 by qRT-PCR and Western blotting, respectively. Then, we enforced apoptosis to COVID-19 patient-derived lymphocytes, and the percent was assessed by flow cytometry.

RESULTS

Survivin and XIAP were less expressed in PBMCs derived from COVID-19 patients as apoptosis inhibitors than PARP, cleaved-PARP, caspase 9, and cleaved caspases 3 and 7, according to the results of real-time PCR and Western blot analysis. Additionally, according to the flow cytometry results, the down-regulation of survivin served as a potential factor in the lymphocyte depletion observed in patients with COVID-19.

CONCLUSION

The role of survivin and its related pathway was first discovered in the development of COVID-19 and may serve as a potential prognostic and therapeutic target.

ABCB1-dependent collateral sensitivity of multidrug-resistant colorectal cancer cells to the survivin inhibitor MX106-4C

AIMS

To investigate the collateral sensitivity (CS) of ABCB1-positive multidrug resistant (MDR) colorectal cancer cells to the survivin inhibitor MX106-4C and the mechanism.

METHODS

Biochemical assays (MTT, ATPase, drug accumulation/efflux, Western blot, RT-qPCR, immunofluorescence, flow cytometry) and bioinformatic analyses (mRNA-sequencing, reversed-phase protein array) were performed to investigate the hypersensitivity of ABCB1 overexpressing colorectal cancer cells to MX106-4C and the mechanisms. Synergism assay, long-term selection, and 3D tumor spheroid test were used to evaluate the anti-cancer efficacy of MX106-4C.

RESULTS

MX106-4C selectively killed ABCB1-positive colorectal cancer cells, which could be reversed by an ABCB1 inhibitor, knockout of ABCB1, or loss-of-function ABCB1 mutation, indicating an ABCB1 expression and function-dependent mechanism. MX106-4C's selective toxicity was associated with cell cycle arrest and apoptosis through ABCB1-dependent survivin inhibition and activation on caspases-3/7 as well as modulation on p21-CDK4/6-pRb pathway. MX106-4C had good selectivity against ABCB1-positive colorectal cancer cells and retained this in multicellular tumor spheroids. In addition, MX106-4C could exert a synergistic anti-cancer effect with doxorubicin or re-sensitize ABCB1-positive cancer cells to doxorubicin by reducing ABCB1 expression in the cell population via long-term exposure.

CONCLUSIONS

MX106-4C selectively kills ABCB1-positive MDR colorectal cancer cells via a novel ABCB1-dependent survivin inhibition mechanism, providing a clue for designing CS compound as an alternative strategy to overcome ABCB1-mediated colorectal cancer MDR.

Survivin as a potential biomarker for early diagnosis of the progression of precancerous lesions to gastric cancer

BACKGROUND

Gastric cancer is a common cancer developed in a carcinogenesis process from precancerous lesions including chronic gastritis, intestinal metaplasia, and dysplasia. Survivin, an inhibitor-of-apoptosis protein, is associated with the initiation and progression of gastric cancer. The present study aimed to evaluate the immunohistochemical expression patterns of survivin and its relationship with early diagnosis of gastric cancer in Iranian patients.

METHODS

In this retrospective case-control study, immunoexpression of survivin was investigated on sections obtained from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue blocks of 38 chronic gastritis, 32 intestinal metaplasia, 20 dysplasia, 28 gastric adenocarcinoma, and 22 controls.

RESULTS

Survivin immunoexpression in chronic gastritis was higher than controls, but this difference was not statistically significant (P > 0.05). However, survivin immunoexpression had a steady significant increase from control and chronic gastritis to intestinal metaplasia to dysplasia to gastric adenocarcinoma (P < 0.05). Sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve of survivin immunohistochemical test for the diagnosis of gastric cancer were 87.5%, 74.4%, and 0.85, respectively. Males had a significantly higher survivin expression than females (P < 0.001). Also, survivin expression was significantly higher in older patients than in younger ones (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

It seems that the steady increase in survivin expression from different precancerous lesions to gastric adenocarcinoma suggests that survivin can be used as a potential biomarker for the prevention and early diagnosis of gastric cancer.

Survivin in lung cancer: a potential target for therapy and prevention-a narrative review

Background and Objective

A versatile biomarker, survivin, is highly expressed in proliferating cells of multiple cancers in humans and animals. It is an apoptosis-regulating protein, engaging in a cascade of reactions that involve several other genes and protein interactions. Currently, researchers are investigating its therapeutic potential due to the evidence linking its overexpression to advanced-stage lung cancer. This review is centered around examining survivin-related molecular mechanisms and its therapeutic role specifically in lung cancer. Our objective is to discuss the role of survivin in prognosis and treatment response, shedding light on immune-targeted therapies, as well as outlining future directions for survivin-based vaccines in lung cancer.

Methods

The PubMed database and the United States National Library of Medicine search engine at the National Institutes of Health were searched on 24 August 2023 to identify published research studies. Searching "((((((airway [Title/Abstract]) OR (lung [Title/Abstract])) OR (pulm[Title/Abstract])) OR (bronch[Title/Abstract])) OR (nslc[Title/Abstract])) AND (((cancer[Title/Abstract]) OR (carcino[Title/Abstract])) OR (oncol[Title/Abstract]))) AND (survivin[Title/Abstract])" gave 728 results. After screening the title and abstracts and excluding the review articles 168 titles were shortlisted and full text studied. The discussions are added to relevant sections.

Key Content and Findings

Survivin is a cell cycle-dependent, inhibitor of apoptosis protein that contributes to carcinogenesis, tumor vascularization, metastasis, and treatment resistance. Several treatments that impact survivin either directly or indirectly have been reported as effective in treating lung cancer. Immunity-based therapy, a novel approach known for its targeted nature and minimal side effects, is currently under investigation for lung cancer treatment. Emerging survivin-centered vaccines exhibit promising attributes in terms of safety, effectiveness, and ability to stimulate an immune response. These factors point towards a significant potential for advancing the future of lung cancer prevention and enhancing overall survival rates.

Conclusions

Nuclear survivin is a potential biomarker for advanced non-small cell lung cancer. It plays a role in determining drug responsiveness and is found to be significantly elevated in cases of resistance to chemotherapy. Multiple compounds and immunization strategies have been identified to impact lung cancer cells; however, they are currently in the early stages of phase I or phase II clinical trials. The substantial promise of survivin-based immunogenicity-focused treatments warrants in-depth investigation and exploration.

Survivin expression is associated with lymph node metastasis and short survival in patients with colorectal adenocarcinoma

BACKGROUND

Survivin, a protein belonging to the Inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family, is the smallest member in terms of size. It works by preventing programmed cell death and regulating the advancement of the cell cycle. Being a part of the group of inhibitors associated with apoptosis, survivin is connected to increased aggression and negative prognosis in different malignancies, including colorectal cancer (CRC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Pathology tissue blocks of 209 primary tumors, and 44 adenomas, were used in this study, as well as an anti-Survivin antibody. A semiquantitative method was used to score the Survivin expression based on an evaluation of the percentage and intensity of nuclear expression.

RESULT

Survivin expression was identified in 127 (60.8%) CRC samples and in 14 adenomas (31.8%). There was an association between positive Survivin immunostaining and lymph node metastasis (P: 0.001), lymphovascular invasion (P: 0.020), and short overall survival (Log-rank 4.012, P=0.045) and disease-free survival probabilities (Log Rank 4.921, P=0.027). There was no association between Survivin expression and age, gender, tumor location, size, stage, margin status, and tumor recurrence.

CONCLUSION

Survivin immune expression is associated with worse prognoses in CRC patients. Survivin can be a potential disease biomarker and could be used in management plans for CRC patients.

Dioscin inhibits non-small cell lung cancer cells and activates apoptosis by downregulation of Survivin

Human malignancies exhibit elevated levels of survivin, and have been linked to poor prognosis. Targeting survivin expression is a promising therapeutic strategy against cancer cells. Natural compounds have become a hot topic in research due to their non-toxic, non-invasive, and efficient treatment of multiple diseases. In this current investigation, it was discovered that Dioscin, as a natural compound, exerted profound antitumor activity against NSCLC cell lines, inhibiting NSCLC cell viability and promoting apoptosis. Further mechanistic studies showed that Dioscin promoted ubiquitination-mediated survivin degradation via strengthening the interaction between survivin and the E3 ubiquitin ligase Fbxl7. Furthermore, Dioscin exhibited a strong tumor suppressive effect in xenograft tumor models, and Dioscin treatment led to a notable decrease in tumor volume and weight. Based on our findings, Dioscin is expected to be a potential antitumor agent for non-small cell lung cancer treatment.

TRAF4 regulates ubiquitination-modulated survivin turnover and confers radioresistance

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is the most common cancer originating in the nasopharynx. Despite continuous improvement in treatment strategies, recurrence or persistence of cancer after radiotherapy is still inevitable, highlighting the need to identify therapeutic resistance factors and develop effective methods for NPC treatment. Herein, we found that TRAF4 is overexpressed in NPC cells and tissues. Knockdown TRAF4 significantly increased the radiosensitivity of NPC cells, possibly by inhibiting the Akt/Wee1/CDK1 axis, thereby suppressing survivin phosphorylation and promoting its degradation by FBXL7. TRAF4 is positively correlated with p-Akt and survivin in NPC tissues. High protein levels of TRAF4 were observed in acquired radioresistant NPC cells, and knockdown of TRAF4 overcomes radioresistant in vitro and the xenograft mouse model. Altogether, our study highlights the TRAF4-survivin axis as a potential therapeutic target for radiosensitization in NPC.

Targeting mTOR and Survivin Concurrently Potentiates Radiation Therapy in Renal Cell Carcinoma by Suppressing DNA Damage Repair and Amplifying Mitotic Catastrophe

Background

Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) was historically considered to be less responsive to radiation therapy (RT) compared to other cancer indications. However, advancements in precision high-dose radiation delivery through single-fraction and multi-fraction stereotactic ablative radiotherapy (SABR) have led to better outcomes and reduced treatment-related toxicities, sparking renewed interest in using RT to treat RCC. Moreover, numerous studies have revealed that certain therapeutic agents including chemotherapies can increase the sensitivity of tumors to RT, leading to a growing interest in combining these treatments. Here, we developed a rational combination of two radiosensitizers in a tumor-targeted liposomal formulation for augmenting RT in RCC. The objective of this study is to assess the efficacy of a tumor-targeted liposomal formulation combining the mTOR inhibitor everolimus (E) with the survivin inhibitor YM155 (Y) in enhancing the sensitivity of RCC tumors to radiation.

Experimental Design

We slightly modified our previously published tumor-targeted liposomal formulation to develop a rational combination of E and Y in a single liposomal formulation (EY-L) and assessed its efficacy in RCC cell lines in vitro and in RCC tumors in vivo. We further investigated how well EY-L sensitizes RCC cell lines and tumors toward radiation and explored the underlying mechanism of radiosensitization.

Results

EY-L outperformed the corresponding single drug-loaded formulations E-L and Y-L in terms of containing primary tumor growth and improving survival in an immunocompetent syngeneic mouse model of RCC. EY-L also exhibited significantly higher sensitization of RCC cells towards radiation in vitro than E-L and Y-L. Additionally, EY-L sensitized RCC tumors towards radiation therapy in xenograft and murine RCC models. EY-L mediated induction of mitotic catastrophe via downregulation of multiple cell cycle checkpoints and DNA damage repair pathways could be responsible for the augmentation of radiation therapy.

Conclusion

Taken together, our study demonstrated the efficacy of a strategic combination therapy in sensitizing RCC to radiation therapy via inhibition of DNA damage repair and a substantial increase in mitotic catastrophe. This combination therapy may find its use in the augmentation of radiation therapy during the treatment of RCC patients.

Targeting survivin for cancer therapy: Strategies, small molecule inhibitors and vaccine based therapeutics in development

Survivin is a member of the family of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs). It is involved in the normal mitotic process and acts as an anti-apoptotic molecule. While terminally differentiated normal tissues lack survivin, several human malignancies have significant protein levels. Resistance to chemotherapy and radiation in tumor cells is associated with survivin expression. Decreased tumor development, apoptosis, and increased sensitivity to chemotherapy and radiation are all effects of downregulating survivin expression or activity. As a prospective cancer treatment, small molecules targeting the transcription and translation of survivin and molecules that can directly bind with the survivin are being explored both in pre-clinical and clinics. Pre-clinical investigations have found and demonstrated the effectiveness of several small-molecule survivin inhibitors. Unfortunately, these inhibitors have also been shown to have off-target effects, which could limit their clinical utility. In addition to small molecules, several survivin peptide vaccines are currently under development. These vaccines are designed to elicit a cytotoxic T-cell response against survivin, which could lead to the destruction of tumor cells expressing survivin. Some survivin-based vaccines are advancing through Phase II clinical studies. Overall, survivin is a promising cancer drug target. However, challenges still need to be addressed before the survivin targeted therapies can be widely used in the clinics.

Apoptosis-related factors are relevant to progression of pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors

BACKGROUND

Multidisciplinary therapy centered on antitumor drugs is indicated in patients with unresectable pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNET). However, the criteria for selection of optimal therapeutic agents is controversial. The aim of this study was to assess the malignancy of PanNET for optimal therapeutic drug selection.

METHODS

Forty-seven patients with PanNET who underwent surgery were reviewed retrospectively, and immunohistochemical characteristics, including expression of GLUT1, SSTR2a, SSTR5, Survivin, X-chromosome-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP), and Caspase3 in the resected specimens, were investigated. Relapse-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) were evaluated with regard to the characteristics using the Kaplan-Meier method and compared with the log-rank test.

RESULTS

GLUT1 expression showed significant correlation with sex (p = 0.036) and mitotic rate (p = 0.048). Survivin and XIAP expression showed significant correlation with T-stage (p = 0.014 and 0.009), p-Stage (p = 0.028 and 0.045), and mitotic rate (p = 0.023 and 0.007). XIAP expression also significantly influenced OS (p = 0.044).

CONCLUSIONS

Survivin and XIAP correlated with grade of malignancy, and expression of XIAP in particular was associated with a poor prognosis. Expression of these proteins may be a useful indicator to select optimal therapeutic agents in PanNET.

METTL3-mediated m6A modification of circRNF220 modulates miR-330-5p/survivin axis to promote osteosarcoma progression

BACKGROUND

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) play a crucial role in regulating various physiological processes. However, the precise regulatory mechanisms of circRNF220s in osteosarcoma (OS) are not well understood.

METHODS

The abundances of circRNF220, miR-330-5p, and survivin were determined using qRT-PCR. To assess the m6A accumulation in circRNF220, a methylated RNA immunoprecipitation (Me-RIP) assay was conducted. Cellular multiplication, motility, and invasion were examined using the cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8), EdU, colony formation, Transwell, and wound-healing assays. The binding relationships were measured through RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and luciferase reporter assays. In vivo functionality was assessed using xenograft models.

RESULTS

CircRNF220 was identified as being overexpressed in both OS cells and tissues. In vitro experiments demonstrated that silencing circRNF220 impeded the proliferation, invasion, and motility of OS cells. Similarly, in vivo studies confirmed that downregulating circRNF220 inhibited the growth of OS. Further mechanistic investigations unveiled that METTL3-modulated circRNF220 regulated the progression of OS by upregulating survivin expression through acting as a sponge for miR-330-5p.

CONCLUSION

The modulation of METTL3-regulated circRNF220 has been found to promote the progression of OS by modulating the miR-330-5p/survivin axis. This novel finding suggests a potentially unique approach to managing OS.

Survivin degradation by bergenin overcomes pemetrexed resistance

PURPOSE

Chemoresistance is a primary factor for treatment failure and tumor recurrence in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients. The oncoprotein survivin is commonly upregulated in human malignancies and is associated with poor prognosis, but its effect on carcinogenesis and chemoresistance in NSCLC is not yet evident, and to explore an effective inhibitor targeting survivin expression is urgently needed.

METHODS

The protumor characteristics of survivin and antitumor activities of bergenin in NSCLC cells were examined by MTS, colony formation assays, immunoblot, immunohistochemistry, and in vivo xenograft development.

RESULTS

Survivin was upregulated in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) tissues, while its depletion inhibited NSCLC tumorigenesis. The current study focused on bergenin, identifying its effective antitumor effect on NSCLC cells both in vivo and in vitro. The results showed that bergenin could inhibit cell proliferation and induce the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis via downregulating survivin. Mechanistically, bergenin reduced the phosphorylation of survivin via inhibiting the Akt/Wee1/CDK1 signaling pathway, thus resulting in enhanced interaction between survivin and E3 ligase Fbxl7 to promote survivin ubiquitination and degradation. Furthermore, bergenin promoted chemoresistance in NSCLC cells re-sensitized to pemetrexed treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

Survivin overexpression is required for maintaining multiple malignant phenotypes of NSCLC cells. Bergenin exerts a potent antitumor effect on NSCLC via targeting survivin, rendering it a promising agent for the treatment of NSCLC.

The survivin-ran inhibitor LLP-3 decreases oxidative phosphorylation, glycolysis and growth of neuroblastoma cells

BACKGROUND

Neuroblastoma (NB), the most common extracranial solid malignancy in children, carries a poor prognosis in high-risk disease, thus requiring novel therapeutic approaches. Survivin is overexpressed in NB, has pro-mitotic and anti-apoptotic functions, and impacts on oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) and aerobic glycolysis. The subcellular localization and hence function of survivin is directed by the GTPase Ran.

AIM

To determine efficacy and modes of action of the survivin-Ran inhibitor LLP-3 as a potential novel therapy of NB.

METHODS

Survivin and Ran mRNA expression in NB tumors was correlated to patient survival. Response to LLP-3 in NB cell lines was determined by assays for viability, proliferation, apoptosis, clonogenicity and anchorage-independent growth. Interaction of survivin and Ran was assessed by proximity-linked ligation assay and their subcellular distribution by confocal immunofluorescence microscopy. Expression of survivin, Ran and proteins important for OXPHOS and glycolysis was determined by Western blot, hexokinase activity by enzymatic assay, interaction of survivin with HIF-1α by co-IP, and OXPHOS and glycolysis by extracellular flux analyzer.

RESULTS

High mRNA expression of survivin and Ran is correlated with poor patient survival. LLP-3 decreases viability, induces apoptosis, and inhibits clonogenic and anchorage-independent growth in NB cell lines, including those with MYCN amplification, and mutations of p53 and ALK. LLP-3 inhibits interaction of survivin with Ran, decreasing their concentration both in the cytoplasm and the nucleus. LLP-3 impairs flexibility of energy metabolism by inhibiting both OXPHOS and glycolysis. Metabolic inhibition is associated with mitochondrial dysfunction and attenuated hexokinase activity but is independent of HIF-1α.

CONCLUSION

LLP-3 attenuates interaction and concentration of survivin and Ran in NB cells. It controls NB cells with diverse genetic alterations, associated with inhibition of OXPHOS, aerobic glycolysis, mitochondrial function and HK activity. Thus, LLP-3 warrants further studies as a novel drug against NB.

BIRC5: A novel therapeutic target for lung cancer stem cells and glioma stem cells

Baculoviral inhibitor of apoptosis repeat containing 5 (BIRC5) is also known as survivin. BIRC5, a member of the apoptosis inhibitor (IAP) family, negatively regulates apoptosis or programmed cell death by inhibiting caspase activation. Due to these properties, overexpression of BIRC5 enables specific survival and division associated with cancer malignancies. In addition, BIRC5 is highly expressed in stem cells, but not present at all in terminally differentiated cells. On this basis, there is speculation that BIRC5 may be involved in the regulation of cancer stem cells (CSCs), but few study results have been reported. In addition, the molecular mechanisms of BIRC5 regulation are not yet well understood. Through the present study, it was confirmed that BIRC5 is a key factor regulating CSCs and epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT). BIRC5 was simultaneously overexpressed in lung cancer stem cells (LCSCs) and glioma stem cells (GSCs), and when the expression was suppressed, the characteristics of CSCs disappeared. In addition, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), a secreted factor regulated by BIRC5, is involved in signaling mechanisms that regulate cancer stem cells and EMT, and PAI-1 forms an autocrine chain. Based on these results, BIRC5 is proposed as a novel therapeutic target protein for LCSCs and GSCs.

Isoliquiritigenin Inhibits Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Overcomes Chemoresistance by Destruction of Survivin

The oncoprotein survivin plays a pivotal role in controlling cell division and preventing apoptosis by inhibiting caspase activation. Its significant contribution to tumorigenesis and therapeutic resistance has been well established. Isoliquiritigenin (ISL), a natural compound, has been recognized for its powerful inhibitory effects against various tumors. However, whether ISL exerts regulatory effects on survivin and its underlying mechanism in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains unclear. Here, we found that ISL inhibited the viability and colony formation of OSCC, and promoted their apoptosis. The immunoblotting data showed that ISL treatment significantly decreased survivin expression. Mechanistically, ISL suppressed survivin phosphorylation on Thr34 by deregulating Akt-Wee1-CDK1 signaling, which facilitated survivin for ubiquitination degradation. ISL inhibited CAL27 tumor growth and decreased p-Akt and survivin expression in vivo. Meanwhile, survivin overexpression caused cisplatin resistance of OSCC cells. ISL alone or combined with cisplatin overcame chemoresistance in OSCC cells. Overall, our results revealed that ISL exerted potent inhibitory effects via inducing Akt-dependent survivin ubiquitination in OSCC cells.

Association of survivin positive circulating tumor cell levels with immune escape and prognosis of osteosarcoma

PURPOSE

Function of survivin protein (encoded by BIRC5) in circulating tumor cells (CTCs) of osteosarcoma (OS) has not been investigated. The goal of this study is to determine whether the expression of survivin protein of CTCs is associated with circulating immune cell infiltration and disease prognosis of OS.

METHODS

Blood samples of 20 patients with OS were collected. CanPatrol™ CTC enrichment technology combined with in situ hybridization (ISH) was applied to enrich and test CTCs and survivin protein. Bioinformation analysis combined with data of routine blood test was used to verify the association between survivin and immune cell infiltration in circulatory system. To screen independent prognostic factors, Kaplan-Meier survival curve, univariate and multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed.

RESULTS

Bioinformatics analysis showed that BIRC5 was strongly negatively related to lymphocyte, including T cell, NK cell and B cell, which released that BIRC5 played a key role in immune escape via reducing immune cell infiltration in circulatory system. Meanwhile, the number of survivin+ CTCs was significantly negatively connection with lymphocyte count (R = -0.56, p = 0.011), which was consistent with bioinformatics analysis. Kaplan-Meier curve showed that the overall survival rate in high survivin+ CTCs group was significantly lower than low group (88.9% vs 36.4%, p = 0.04). Multivariable Cox regression analyses showed that survivin+ CTCs were an independent prognostic factor (p = 0.019).

CONCLUSION

These findings suggested that survivin protein played a key role in immune escape of CTCs and the presence of survivin+ CTCs might be a promising prognostic factor in OS patients.

Survivin-targeted nanomedicine for increased potency of abiraterone and enzalutamide against prostate cancer

Prostate cancer is the leading and most aggressive cancer around the world, several therapeutic approaches have emerged but none have achieved the satisfactory result. However, these therapeutic approaches face many challenges related to their delivery to target cells, including their in vivo decay, the limited uptake by target cells, the requirements for nuclear penetration (in some cases), and the damage caused to healthy cells. These barriers can be avoided by effective, targeted, combinatorial approaches, with minimal side effects, which are being investigated for the treatment of cancer. Here, we developed a combinatorial nanomedicine comprising abiraterone and enzalutamide bioconjugated survivin-encapsulated gold nanoparticles (AbEzSvGNPs) for targeted therapy of prostate cancer. AbEzSvGNPs were characterized by different biophysical techniques such as UV visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering, zeta potential, transmission electron microscope, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Interestingly, the effect of abiraterone, enzalutamide and surviving encapsulated gold nanoparticles was found to be synergistic in nature in AbEzSvGNPs against DU 145 (IC50 = 4.21 µM) and PC-3 (IC50 = 5.58 µM) cells and their potential was observed to be greatly enhanced as compared with the combined effect of the drugs (abiraterone and enzalutamide) in their free form. Furthermore, AbEzSvGNPs were found to be highly safe and did not exhibit significant cytotoxicity against normal rat kidney cells. The observed effects of AbEzSvGNPs involved the modulation of different signaling pathways in prostate cancer cells. This delivery system employed non-androgen receptor-dependent delivery of abiraterone and enzalutamide. The anionic AbEzSvGNPs delivered abiraterone and enzalutamide unaltered into the nucleus through caveolae mediated internalization to act nonspecifically on DNA; internalization of the anionic nanoparticles into the cytoplasm was also observed via other routes. AbEzSvGNPs synthesized and evaluated in this study are promising candidates for prostate cancer therapy.

Expression Pattern of Tumor-associated Antigens in Neuroblastoma: Association With Cytogenetic Features and Survival

Background/Aim

The prognosis of high-risk and relapsed neuroblastoma (NB) patients remains poor. The identification of tumor-associated markers is important for differential diagnosis, prognosis, and the development of targeted therapies. The aim of the study was to determine the expression profile of nine most common NB antigens and assess their association with clinicopathological characteristics and patient survival.

Patients and Methods

Tumor samples from 86 patients with NB were evaluated for the expression of tumor-associated antigen (TAA) using quantitative PCR. Twenty-one patients with benign tumors and 17 healthy donors were assigned as controls.

Results

Overexpression of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH), PHOX2B, PRAME, GPC2, B7-H3, and Survivin is the most typical for NB. Positive expression of MAGEA3, MAGEA1, and NY-ESO-1 at low levels was detected in 54%, 48%, and 52%, respectively, and was not NB specific. Higher TH expression was observed in samples without MYCN-amplification, while higher expression of Survivin, PHOX2B, and GPC2 was significantly associated with the presence of 1p.36 deletion. Overexpression of TH, PHOX2B, and MAGEA1 was associated with better event-free (EFS) and overall survival (OS). Survivin overexpression was associated with poor EFS but had no impact on OS. Multivariate analysis confirmed Survivin as independent marker for poor survival, and PHOX2B and MAGEA1 for better survival.

Conclusion

High expression of TH, PHOX2B, and MAGEA1 genes are favorable prognostic factors for OS and EFS, whereas high expression of Survivin is associated with an increased risk of relapse or progression.

Lead exposure induces neuronal apoptosis via NFκB p65/RBBP4/Survivin signaling pathway

Lead (Pb), as a heavy metal that is easily exposed in daily life, can cause damage to various systems of body. Apoptosis is an autonomous cell death process regulated by genes in order to maintain the stability of internal environment, which plays an important role in the development of nervous system. RB binding protein 4 (RBBP4) is one of the core histone binding subunits and is closely related to the apoptosis process of nervous system cells. However, it is not known whether RBBP4 can regulate neuronal apoptosis in lead-exposed environments. We exposed PC12 cells to 0 μM (control group), 1 μM, and 100 μM PbAc for 24 h to obtain cell samples. The female rats ingested drinking water containing 0, 0.5 g/L, and 2.0 g/L PbAc from the first day of pregnancy to three weeks after delivery to obtain hippocampal tissue samples from mammary rats. The results of TUNEL showed that lead exposure promoted the onset of apoptosis in cells and hippocampus. The mRNA and protein levels of the apoptosis-related protein Survivin were significantly reduced in the lead-exposed group compared to the control group. In addition, we found that lead exposure reduces the mRNA and protein levels of RBBP4 in PC12 cells and hippocampus, and increases the mRNA and protein levels of NFκB p65. Moreover, inhibiting NFκB p65 can reverse the decrease in RBBP4 expression in the lead exposure model. Overexpression of RBBP4 increased Survivin expression and reduced apoptosis induced by lead exposure. This suggests that lead exposure induces apoptosis through the NFκB p65/RBBP4/Survivin signaling pathway.

Impact of Survivin rs9904341 and rs17878467 Polymorphisms On Risk of Preeclampsia in Iran

Preeclampsia (PE) is a hypertensive disorder that affects pregnancy, mother, and fetus. Early diagnosis of PE remains a challenge. This study aimed to investigate the association between survivin two (rs9904341 and rs17878467) SNPs and PE risk in healthy pregnant women compared to women with preeclampsia. A sample of 166 healthy pregnant women and 160 cases with preeclampsia was included and genotyped for rs9904341 with polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and rs17878467 with amplification-refractory mutation system (ARMS) PCR. The genotypic and allelic assessments were performed using various statistical approaches. The frequency of rs9904341 and rs17878467 polymorphisms was not significantly different between PE and healthy pregnant women. rs9904341: codominant (p = 0.5), dominant (p = 0.24), recessive (p = 0.61), over-dominant model (p = 0.38), and log additive (p = 0.25). rs17878467: codominant (p = 0.41), dominant (p = 0.23), recessive (p = 0.4), over-dominant model (p = 0.42), and log additive (p = 0.24). The frequency of survivin rs9904341 CG and CC genotypes was higher in severe PE women compared to controls and this polymorphism was associated with PE severity only in the dominant model (OR = 1.84, CI 1.04-3.26, P = 0.034). There was a significant association between survivin rs9904341 polymorphism and PE severity. No relationship was found between survivin rs9904341 and rs17878467 polymorphisms and PE onset. The allelic and genotypic frequencies of survivin rs9904341 and rs17878467 polymorphisms are not significantly different between the preeclampsia and control groups in all genetic models. Haplotype analysis showed lower frequency G rs9904341 T rs17878467 haplotype in PE woman and this haplotype was associated with lower risk of PE (OR = 0.54, CI 0.33-0.91, P = 0.02).

Gastrodin destabilizes survivin and overcomes pemetrexed resistance

Survivin is a bifunctional protein that plays crucial roles in tumorigenesis. In the present study, we discovered that the natural product gastrodin suppressed the cell viability and colony formation of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cell lines A549, HCC827, and H460 in a dose-dependent manner. In addition, gastrodin enhanced the protein levels of cleaved-caspase 3 by activating the endogenous mitochondrial apoptosis pathway. Gastrodin inhibits protein kinase B (Akt)/WEE1/cyclin-dependent kinase 1 (CDK1) signaling to downregulate survivin Thr34 phosphorylation. Survivin Thr34 dephosphorylation caused by gastrodin interfered with the binding of ubiquitin-specific protease 19 (USP19), which eventually destabilized survivin. We revealed that the growth of NSCLC xenograft tumors was markedly suppressed by gastrodin in vivo. Furthermore, gastrodin overcomes pemetrexed resistance in vivo or in vitro. Our results suggest that gastrodin is a potential antitumor agent by reducing survivin in NSCLC.

The prognostic significance of tumor budding and the expression of focal adhesion kinase and survivin in lung adenocarcinoma

OBJECTIVES

Adenocarcinoma is the tumor group with the highest incidence among lung cancers with poor prognosis. Tumor budding (TB) is the migration of single tumor cells or small clusters of cells from the neoplastic epithelium to the invasive front of the tumor. Focal adhesion kinase (FAK) and survivin are considered as poor prognostic factors in several tumors. Hence, we investigated TB, FAK, and survivin expression in lung adenocarcinoma.

METHODS

The study included 103 cases of lung adenocarcinoma in the resection materials. In tumoral tissues; TB was counted and scored in one high-power field (HPF), as low if <5 in 1 HPF and high if ≥5 in 1 HPF. FAK and survivin were studied immunohistochemically.

RESULTS

The mean number of TB in 1 HPF is 3.96 ± 2.8. Low-grade TB was observed in 45 (43.7 %) and high-grade TB was observed in 58 (56.3 %) patients. There was a positive correlation between TB and pT stage (p = 0.017), clinical stage (p = 0.002), lymphovascular invasion (p = 0.001), and perineural invasion (p = 0.045). The 4-year survival rate in patients was 90 % in those with low-grade TB and 60 % in those with high-grade TB (p = 0.001). FAK and survivin expressions were significantly increased in tumors with high-grade TB (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

A significant correlation was found between the grade of TB and pT stage, clinical stage, lymphovascular and perineural invasion in lung adenocarcinoma. TB can be considered as a histological parameter showing poor prognosis. It is thought that high expression of FAK and survivin also affect the prognosis in these patients by increasing TB.

Cullin7 induces docetaxel resistance by regulating the protein level of the antiapoptotic protein Survivin in lung adenocarcinoma cells

Background

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most common subtype of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Chemotherapy resistance is the main cause of chemotherapy failure. Cullin7 (Cul7) is highly expressed in LUAD and is associated with poor prognosis. Moreover, Cul7 is abnormally overexpressed in docetaxel-resistant LUAD cells. Therefore, further exploration of the role and molecular mechanism of Cul7 in LUAD docetaxel resistance is necessary.

Methods

We established docetaxel-resistant cell lines (A549DTX and H358DTX cell lines) by exposing cells to gradually increasing concentrations of docetaxel. Cell (A549, A549DTX, H358, and H358DTX cell lines) sensitivity to docetaxel was determined via a 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-5-(3-carboxymmethoxyphenyl)-2-(4-sulfophenyl)-2H-tetrazolium, inner salt (MTS) assay. And then quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and Western blotting were performed to measure the expression of Cul7 and Survivin in A549, A549DTX, H358, and H358DTX cell lines. Subsequently, we knocked down Cul7 in docetaxel-resistant cells and overexpressed Cul7 in parental cells via lentiviral transduction to further validate the correlation between Cul7 and docetaxel resistance, while exploring the molecular mechanism of docetaxel resistance it caused. Immunofluorescence and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were also used to evaluate the expression and cellular localization of Cul7. To confirm the effect of Cul7 expression on cell apoptosis, we used flow cytometry to detect the apoptosis rate of A549 and A549DTX cells with the same drug concentration.

Results

Cul7 was highly expressed in A549DTX and H358DTX cells. However, when Cul7 expression was knocked down in A549DTX and H358DTX cells, cell sensitivity to docetaxel was significantly increased. In addition, we found that Cul7 was coexpressed with Survivin. Silencing Survivin reversed the docetaxel insensitivity caused by Cul7 overexpression. High expression of Cul7 and Survivin in docetaxel-resistant LUAD cells inhibited the intrinsic apoptosis pathway and promoted cell proliferation. Therefore, the Cul7/Survivin axis may play a role in inducing LUAD docetaxel chemoresistance.

Conclusions

Cul7 and Survivin were both highly expressed in docetaxel-resistant LUAD cells. Our results suggest that Cul7 may inhibit apoptosis and promote the proliferation of LUAD cells by increasing the Survivin protein level, which in turn contributes to docetaxel chemoresistance in LUAD.

Research Progress and New Perspectives of Anticancer Effects of Emodin

Emodin is a natural compound found in several traditional Chinese medicines, including Rheum palmatum and Polygonum cuspidatum. Recent studies have shown that emodin exhibits potent anticancer effects against a variety of cancer types, including liver, breast, lung, and colon cancer. Emodin's anticancer effects are mediated through several mechanisms, including inhibition of cell proliferation, induction of apoptosis, and suppression of tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. In this review, we provide an overview of recent research progress and new perspectives on emodin's anticancer effect. We summarize the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying emodin's anticancer activity, including its effects on signaling pathways such as the PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and NF-[Formula: see text]B pathways. We also discuss the potential of emodin as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment, including its use in combination with conventional chemotherapeutic drugs and as a sensitizer for radiotherapy. Furthermore, we highlight recent advances in the development of emodin derivatives and their potential as novel anticancer agents. Finally, we discuss the challenges and opportunities for the translation of emodin's anticancer properties into clinical applications, including the need for further preclinical and clinical studies to evaluate its safety and efficacy. In conclusion, emodin represents a promising natural compound with potent anticancer properties, and its potential as a therapeutic agent for cancer treatment warrants further investigation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current research progress and new perspectives on emodin's anticancer effects, which may facilitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies for cancer treatment.

High expression of HSP60 and survivin predicts poor prognosis for oral squamous cell carcinoma patients

BACKGROUND

HSP60 is a heat shock proteins (HSPs) family member and help mitochondrial protein to fold correctly. Survivin is one of the inhibitors of apoptosis protein family member, which plays a significant part in cancer progression. They were capable of forming HSP60-survivin complexes and involved in the development of various tumors.

METHODS

The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database demonstrated that HSP60 and survivin and their correlation on mRNA expression level with OSCC patients. Besides, expression of HSP60 and survivin proteins was studied utilizing immunohistochemistry in tissue microarrays (TMA) in OSCC and in adjacent non-cancerous squamous epithelium (Non-CCSE) tissues.

RESULTS

Significantly increased levels of HSP60 and survivin in most cancers compared to normal tissue by pan-cancer analysis. HSP60 and survivin proved a significantly increased expression in OSCC samples compared to Non-CCSE both on mRNA and protein (both P < 0.05). Additionally, elevated HSP60 displayed a positive correlation with survivin in terms of mRNA and protein expression levels (all P < 0.001). Patients with OSCC who had advanced clinical stage or lymph node metastasis (LNM) showed higher HSP60 expression (P = 0.004, P = 0.006, respectively). Higher levels of the proteins HSP60 and survivin were significantly inversely correlated relationship with OSCC patients' overall survival rates in multivariate survival analysis (P = 0.018, P = 0.040). From the above results, overexpression of HSP60 and survivin protein may serve as independent biomarkers predicting poor prognosis in OSCC.

CONCLUSIONS

Elevated HSP60 and survivin might be served as novel poor prognosis biomarkers for surgically resected OSCC patients.

Predictive and Prognostic Value of TUBB3, RRM1, APE1, and Survivin Expression in Chemotherapy-Receiving Patients with Advanced Non‑Small Cell Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to evaluate the expression of class III β-tubulin (TUBB3), ribonucleoside-diphosphate reductase 1 (RRM1), apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1), and survivin in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to predict response to chemotherapy.

METHODS

TUBB3, RRM1, APE1, and survivin expression levels were determined using immunohistochemistry. Protein expression was validated in Car/Pac-resistant human H1792 and A549 cells. This study included 86 patients, among whom 34 received cisplatin (Cis)/gemcitabine (Gem) and 52 received carboplatin (Car)/paclitaxel (Pac).

RESULTS

Patients with low TUBB3 expression and high RRM1 and survivin expression had higher response rates than those with low RRM1 and survivin expression and high TUBB3 expression in the Car/Pac regimen. The multivariate analysis indicated that TUBB3 and RRM1 were significant independent predictive biomarkers for the Car/Pac regimen; however, there was no association between any protein and overall response in patients treated with this regimen. In the Cis/Gem regimen, only high TUBB3 expression was associated with poor overall survival; however, it did not exhibit a prognostic ability.

CONCLUSION

The expression levels of TUBB3 and RRM1 in NSCLC cells are potential predictive biomarkers, but not prognostic factors, of response to chemotherapy in patients with NSCLC receiving the Car/Pac regimen.

Increase in serum vimentin levels in patients with glioma and its correlation with prognosis of patients with glioblastoma

Early diagnosis of glioma is of great value to improve prognosis. We focused on serum vimentin levels as a useful biomarker for preoperative diagnosis. The aim of this study was to determine whether serum vimentin levels in patients with glioma are significantly higher than those of healthy adult volunteer and whether the serum vimentin level is associated with overall survival (OS) in patients with glioblastoma (GBM). This study included 52 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed glioma and a control group of 13 healthy adult volunteers. We measured serum vimentin levels in blood samples obtained from patients with glioma preoperatively and a control group. Furthermore, we investigated the correlation between serum vimentin levels and OS in patients with GBM. The serum vimentin levels of patients with glioma were significantly higher than those of the control group. The serum vimentin level of 2.9 ng/ml was the optimal value for differentiating patients with glioma from the control group with a sensitivity of 92.3% and specificity of 88.5%. The serum vimentin levels correlated significantly with immunoreactivity for survivin. In 27 patients with GBM, serum vimentin levels (cutoff value, median value 53.3 ng/ml) correlated with OS in univariate and multivariate analyses. Our study revealed that serum vimentin levels of patients with glioma are significantly higher than those of the control group. Therefore, we believe that serum vimentin level might be a useful and practical biomarker for preoperative diagnosis of glioma. Furthermore, high serum vimentin levels correlated significantly with shorter OS in patients with GBM.

The Assessment of Cytotoxicity, Apoptosis Inducing Activity and Molecular Docking of a new Ciprofloxacin Derivative in Human Leukemic Cells

The fluoroquinolone class of antibiotics includes derivatives of the drug ciprofloxacin. These substances have recently been advocated for the treatment of cancer. In the current study, we examined the cytotoxicity and apoptosis-inducing potential of a novel synthetic ciprofloxacin derivative in the human myeloid leukemia KG1-a cell line. With an IC50 of 25µM, this ciprofloxacin derivative, 7-(4-(2-(benzhydryloxy)-2-oxoethyl) piperazin-1-yl)-1-cyclopropyl-6-fluoro-4-oxo-1,4 dihydroquinoline-3- carboxylic acid (4-BHPCP), was an active drug. Through Hoechst 33,258 staining and Annexin V/PI double staining experiments, the apoptotic activity of the 4-BHPCP was assessed morphologically. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to assess changes in the expression level of certain apoptosis-related genes, including Bcl-2, Bax, and Survivin (qRT PCR). The results of the qRT PCR analysis demonstrated that 4-BHPCP promotes apoptosis in the KG1-a cell line by down-regulating Survivin and Bcl2, up-regulating Bax, and increasing the Bax/Bcl2 transcripts in a time-dependent manner. These results imply that this novel chemical may be a promising therapy option for acute myeloid leukemia.

Effects of high-risk human papillomavirus infection on P53, pRb, and survivin in lung adenocarcinoma-a retrospective study

Objective

To observe the effects of high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection on P53, pRb, and survivin in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

The cancerous and cancer-adjacent tissues of 102 patients with LUAD from January 2020 to April 2022 were selected for the study. HR-HPV infection was detected by flow fluorescence method, and P53, pRb, and survivin protein expression was detected by immunohistochemical staining method. Statistical analysis was performed to determine the differences in the HR-HPV infection and the expression of P53, pRb, and survivin proteins between LUAD tissues and cancer-adjacent tissues; the correlation between HR-HPV infection and P53, pRb, and survivin protein expression in cancer tissues; and the correlation between HR-HPV infection and clinicopathological features of LUAD.

Results

The infection rate of HR-HPV was higher in the LUAD tissues (28.43%) than in cancer-adjacent tissues (7.84%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The positive rates of P53 and survivin protein were higher in the LUAD group (33.33% and 67.16%, respectively) than in the cancer-adjacent group (3.92% and 11.73%, respectively), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The positive rate of pRb protein was lower in the LUAD group (58.82%) than in the cancer-adjacent group (92.14%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The positive rates of P53 and survivin proteins were significantly higher in the HR-HPV LUAD group (58.62% and 86.21%, respectively) than in the non-HR-HPV LUAD group (41.38% and 67.12%, respectively), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The expression rate of pRb protein was significantly lower in the HR-HPV LUAD group (37.93%) than in the non-HR-HPV LUAD group (67.12%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The expression of p53 and survivin protein was positively correlated with HR-HPV infection (r = 0.338 and 0.444, P < 0.05), whereas the expression of pRb protein was negatively correlated with HR-HPV infection (r =  - 0.268, P < 0.05). HR-HPV infection was not associated with gender, age, and smoking in patients with LUAD (P > 0.05). HR-HPV infection was associated with lymph node metastasis and clinical stage of LUAD (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

HR-HPV infection was associated with lymph node metastasis and clinical stage of LUAD, which may be achieved by up-regulating p53 and survivin protein expression and down-regulating pRb protein expression.

Effect of RNAi-Mediated Survivin and Hypoxia-Inducible Factor 1α Gene Silencing on Proliferation, Invasion, Migration and Apoptosis of Gastric Cancer BGC-823 Cells

In order to investigate the effects of RNAi-mediated survivin and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α) gene silencing on the proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer BGC-823 cells, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting survivin and HIF-1α mRNAs, respectively, as well as scrambled siRNAs (SCRs) were designed and synthesized, namely siRNA-survivin group, siRNA-HIF-1α group, and SCR group. The hypoxia-sensitive gastric cancer BGC-823 cells were identified and transfected in vitro with Hifectin II under hypoxic conditions, and the expression of survivin and HIF-1α was assessed by RT-PCR and Western blotting assays, respectively. The ability of apoptosis, proliferation, invasion, and migration was measured, and the results showed that HIF-1α expression was significantly increased in BGC-823 cells under hypoxic conditions, and survival-targeted siRNA transfection decreased the expression of survivin under hypoxic conditions, while co-transfection of survivin-targeted siRNA and HIF-1α-targeted siRNA down-regulated both survivin and HIF-1α expression. Compared with the blank control group, the co-transfected siRNA group exhibited distinct characteristics, with decreased invasion and migration ability, increased apoptosis, and significantly decreased cell proliferation under hypoxic conditions. It was confirmed that the downregulation of survivin and HIF-1α in BGC-823 cells may induce anticancer effects by enhancing apoptosis and decreasing proliferation, migration, and invasion ability. The novelty lies in the application of RNAi technology to silence the expression of both survivin and HIF-1α genes in gastric cancer BGC-823 cells by single and combined interference in an established gastric cancer cell model and observed the mechanism of its effect on the proliferation and apoptosis of gastric cancer cells. Concerning the success of this highly active antiretroviral therapy of gene disruption therapies, which is the first of its kind in the world, we wonder whether we can find other better gene targets for more kinds of tumor therapy.

The prognostic effect of immunohistochemical staining rates in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer

Context

Despite the follow-up protocols developed in non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients, progression and recurrence could not be prevented.

Aims

We aimed to investigate whether proteins such as OCT-4, CD47, p53, Ki-67, and Survivin, which increase in bladder cancer cells, can be used as prognostic markers for patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Settings and Design

The study included a total of 89 patients with newly diagnosed non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer between January 2015 and December 2020.

Materials and Methods

Levels of OCT-4, CD47, p53, Kİ-67, and Survivin proteins in cancer cells were determined with a semi-quantitative immunohistochemical experiment. Pathological data and survival rates were compared according to the staining rates.

Statistical Analysis Used

Data obtained in the study were analyzed statistically with SPSS 22.0 (SPSS, Chicago, IL, USA).

Results

The mean age of the patients was 64.25 ± 9.91 years, and the median follow-up period was 55 months. Recurrence rate was determined to be 36% (n = 32), and the rate of progression at 40.4% (n = 36). The staining rates were stronger for each marker in the progression group and advanced-stage tumors (p < 0.001). The findings of the multivariate analysis carried out as part of the study showed that older age and higher tumor stage were independent risk factors for recurrence-free survival (HR = 1.048 and 7.074, respectively; P = 0.02). Also, higher tumor stages, diameters, and grades were associated with reduced progression-free survival (HR = 0.105, 0.395, 0.225, respectively; P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although immunohistochemical staining rates are promising, it is more appropriate to use tumor characteristics when assessing survival rate in patients with non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer.

Correlation of Before and After Invasive Breast Cancer Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy for NFkB, Cyclin D1, and Survivin Expression

Background & Objective

Patients undergoing neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NC) for invasive breast cancer (IBC) therapy need biomarkers to track their progress. Because of the relationship between NFkB, Survivin, and Cyclin D1 with NC resistance, the different expression levels of each of these biomarkers can be different between pre- and post-NC in IBC. However, no research has examined the correlation between these biomarkers before and after the NC expression. This study aimed to determine the correlation among them.

Methods

Biomarkers expression (low and high) was used to classify 30 samples. ER, PR, HER2, Ki-67 status, tumor grade, age, and NC response were assessed. The amounts of Survivin, Cyclin D1, and NFkB were evaluated using immunohistochemistry, and the samples were classified based on the cut-off. Chi-square and linear regression were used to evaluate the data.

Results

No significant association was found with the changes in the expression of Survivin, Cyclin D1, and NFkB, both before and after the NC. Significant moderate correlations were shown between before and after the NC Survivin expression (r = 0.513) and Cyclin D1 expression (r = 0.543). The correlation between expression of NFkB before and after the NC was not significant.

Conclusion

The high potential of these proteins as prognostic indicators was demonstrated by the strong positive association between the expression of Survivin and Cyclin D1 before and after the NC. This upregulation of biomarkers indicates chemoresistance in developing IBC in the presence of NC.

Yellow mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor) enhances intestinal immunity in largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) via the NFκB/survivin signaling pathway

This study aimed to elucidate the mechanisms of yellow mealworm (Tenebrio Molitor, YM) in intestinal immunity and health. Largemouth bass, as an enteritis modeling animal, were fed 3 diets containing YM at 0% (YM0), 24% (YM24) and 48% (YM48). The YM24 group had reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines, while the YM48 group experienced a negative impact on intestinal health. Next, the Edwardsiella tarda (E. tarda) challenge test consisted of 4 YM diets, 0% (EYM0), 12% (EYM12), 24% (EYM24), and 36% (EYM36). The EYM0 and EYM12 groups exhibited intestinal damage and immunosuppression by the pathogenic bacteria. However, the above adverse phenotypes were attenuated in the EYM24 and EYM36 groups. Mechanistically, the EYM24 and EYM36 groups enhanced intestinal immunity in largemouth bass via activating NFκBp65 and further upregulating survivin expression to inhibit apoptosis. The results identify a protective mechanism of YM as a novel food or feed source by improving intestinal health.

Silymarin in combination with ATRA enhances apoptosis induction in human acute promyelocytic NB4 cells

Although all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA) is an efficient pattern in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) therapy, further studies are required due to the extant clinical limitations of ATRA. It has been reported that Silymarin, an anti-cancer herbal substance extracted from milk thistle (Silybum marianum), is able to regulate apoptosis in various types of cancer cells through different mechanisms of action. This study investigated the apoptosis-inducing effect of Silymarin (SM) alone and in combination with ATRA on human acute promyelocytic NB4 cells. Examination using MTT assay indicated that SM treatment leads to growth inhibition in NB4 cells in a dose-dependent manner. The IC50 values of SM and ATRA were calculated 90 μM and 2 μM, respectively. Cell cycle analysis by flow cytometry revealed that a more increase in the sub-G1 phase (a sign of apoptosis) when cells were exposed to SM in combination with ATRA. The incidence of apoptosis was confirmed through Hoechst 33258 staining and Annexin V-FITC analysis. The results showed that Silymarin enhances ATRA-induced apoptosis. The flow cytometric analysis also indicated an enhancement in levels of ROS in the treated cells with both compounds. The real-time PCR illustrated that SM targets apoptosis by down-regulation in Survivin and Bcl-2 while up-regulation in Bax. The findings showed that the combination of the two compounds is more effective in the induction of apoptosis in NB4 cells. Molecular docking studies indicated that Sylibin, as a primary compound of the SM, binds to the BH3 domain of Bcl-2 and the BIR domain of Survivin with various affinities. Based on the findings, it seems that SM used alone and in combination with ATRA may be beneficial for inducing apoptosis in APL cells.

Expression of EGFR and survivin in ameloblastoma, odontogenic keratocyst and calcifying odontogenic cyst - An immunohistochemical study

Context

Odontogenic lesions have diverse biological behaviour which is characterised by local invasiveness, and a high recurrence rate. EGFR and survivin was found to be involved in the aggressiveness, recurrences and metastasis of a variety of epithelial malignancies.

Aims

To assess and compare the expression of EGFR and survivin in Ameloblastoma (AB), Odontogenic keratocyst (OKC) and Calcifying odontogenic cyst (COC).

Settings and Design

The study's goal was to use immunohistochemistry to assess the qualitative and quantitative expression of EGFR and survivin and to correlate their expression patterns in AB, OKC and COC.

Methods and Material

Study included 30 AB, 15 OKC and 10 COC. All the slides were immunohistochemically analysed for qualitative, quantitative and semi-quantitative data. In each group, the presence of EGFR and survivin was assessed in terms of stain localisation, intensity and percentage of positive cells.

Statistical Analysis Used

Data were analysed using Chi-square test and one-way ANOVA, P value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

EGFR positivity was found in all cases. Survivin was found to be 96% positive in AB and 100% positive in OKC and COC. Both EGFR and survivin showed predominant cytoplasmic staining. All the slides that are stained with EGFR are also stained with survivin. The intensity varied significantly between the layers. OKC showed higher immunoreactive scores (IRSs).

Conclusions

The current study provides insight into the role of EGFR and survivin in the pathogenesis of AB, OKC and COC. OKC appears to be more aggressive than ameloblastoma and COC, owing to its higher IRS.

Targeted Overexpression of NDRG2 using Survivin Promoter Reduces Viability and Invasiveness of A549 Cell Line

Background

Anti-tumor effects of N-myc Downstream Regulated Gene2 (NDRG2) have been demonstrated in many tumors. In the present study, NDRG2 was specifically overexpressed in lung cancer cell line using Survivin Promoter (Sur-P). Then, the effects of NDRG2 overexpression on viability, apoptosis, migration, and invasion of A549 cells were evaluated.

Methods

Recombinant pAdenoVator-Sur-P-NDRG2-IRES-GFP plasmid harboring NDRG2 gene under transcriptional control of Sur-P and mock plasmid were constructed. A549 lung tumor cells and LX-2 cells (non-tumor cell line) were transfected with pAdenoVator-Sur-P-NDRG2-IRES-GFP, pAdenoVator-CMV-NDRG2-IRES-GFP, or mock plasmids. Tumor specificity of Sur-P was evaluated using fluorescent microscopy for GFP expression. The effects of NDRG2 overexpression on cell viability, apoptosis, and migration of A549 cells were measured using MTT, annexinV/7-AAD flow cytometry, and transwell migration assay, respectively. NDRG2 and matrix metalloproteinase-2 (MMP-2) expression were measured using real time-PCR.

Results

pAdenoVator-Sur-P-NDRG2-IRES-GFP transfection resulted in a huge GFP expression in A549 cells, but not in LX-2 cells. The results of real time-PCR analysis also showed that pAdenoVator-Sur-P-NDRG2-IRES-GFP transfection led to an abundant NDRG2 expression in A549 cells. NDRG2 overexpression decreased A549 cell viability through increasing cell apoptosis. In addition, migration, invasion, and MMP-2 expression decreased following NDRG2 overexpression in A549 cells.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the targeted overexpression of NDRG2 using Sur-P can reduce the viability and invasiveness of A549 cells, suggesting possible benefits of this approach in lung cancer therapy.

Upregulation of HBXIP contributed to the anti-DND by ginsenoside Rg1 after global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion

OBJECTIVES

Ginsenoside Rg1 (Rg1) has been well-documented to be effective against ischemic/reperfusion (I/R) injury. However, whether it has therapeutic effect on delayed neuronal death is still unclear. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of Rg1 on delayed neuronal death and elucidate its underlying mechanism.

METHODS

Delayed neuronal death model was prepared by global cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in rats, Rg1 was intravenously administered once a day. Nissl and Fluoro Jade B staining were carried out to evaluate the effect of Rg1 on delayed neuronal death. Western blot and qPCR were used to investigate the levels of HBXIP and Survivin. HBXIP/Survivin complex was observed by co-immunoprecipitation. AAV-CMV-shRNA (HBXIP) was used to observe the role of HBXIP on delayed neuronal death improved by Rg1.

KEY FINDINGS

Rg1 attenuated delayed neuronal death at the dose of 20 mg/kg, which also improved the mRNA and protein levels of HBXIP, as well as Survivin. Moreover, administration of Rg1 promoted the formation of HBXIP/Survivin complex, which contributed to the reduction of caspases signaling pathway. Knockdown of HBXIP abolished the alleviation of DND and inhibition of caspase cascade induced by Rg1.

CONCLUSIONS

Rg1 alleviated delayed neuronal death by promoting anti-apoptosis effect by HBXIP/Survivin complex.

Cloning, Expression, and Purification of the Human Synthetic Survivin Protein in Escherichia coli Using Response Surface Methodology (RSM)

Survivin is one of the novel members of the apoptosis inhibitor protein family in humans. The main activity of the Survivin protein is to suppress caspases activity resulting in negative regulation of apoptosis. Survivin protein can be a potential target for the treatment of cancers between cancerous and normal cells. In the present research, the synthetic Survivin gene with PelB secretion signal peptide was cloned into a prokaryotic expression vector pET21a. The recombinant plasmid pET21a-PelB-Surv was expressed in Escherichia coli (E.coli) BL21, and the relative molecular mass of expressed protein was calculated 34,000 g/mol, approximately. The recombinant protein was purified through chromatography column and characterized by sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Response surface methodology (RSM) was used to design 20 experiments for optimization of IPTG concentration, post-induction period, and cell density of induction (OD600). The optimum levels of the selected parameters were successfully determined to be 0.28 mM for IPTG concentration, 10 h for post-induction period, and 3.40768 for cell density (OD600). These findings resulted in 4.14-fold increases in the Survivin production rate of optimum expression conditions (93.6363 mg/ml).

Role of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and survivin in breast cancer recurrence and prognosis

Objective

To analyze the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) and survivin in breast cancer, and different molecular subtypes of breast cancer and to assess their relationship with recurrence and prognosis.

Methods

The expression levels of HIF-1α and survivin genes in breast cancer were investigated using bioinformatics. Their protein expression levels were then verified through immunohistochemistry (IHC), and their relationship with recurrence and prognosis was assessed.

Results

Expression levels of HIF-1α and survivin genes and proteins were increased in breast cancer tissues compared with normal tissues. Both were associated with clinical features of breast cancer and differentially expressed in different molecular subtypes of breast cancer, and both are related to the signal pathway of breast cancer growth and invasion. HIF-1α and survivin gene and protein expression levels were correlated, and both were associated with breast cancer recurrence (R = 0.380, P < 0.05; R = 0.673, P < 0.05, respectively). According to The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, HIF1A and BIRC5 gene were not associated with breast cancer prognosis (P ≥ 0.05); however, HIF-1α and survivin protein were associated with recurrence patient's overall survival (OS) (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

HIF-1α and survivin are highly expressed in breast cancer and can be used as potential biomarkers to predict recurrence and assess prognosis.

Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins as therapeutic targets in bladder cancer

Evasion from apoptosis is a hallmark of cancer. Inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAPs) contribute to this hallmark by suppressing the induction of cell death. IAPs were found to be overexpressed in cancerous tissues and to contribute to therapeutic resistance. The present review focuses on the IAP members cIAP1, cIAP2, XIAP, Survivin and Livin and their importance as potential therapeutic targets in bladder cancer.

Contribution of survivin to the immune system, allergies and autoimmune diseases

In addition to malignancies, survivin (a member of the apoptosis inhibitor family) has been implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory disorders, including autoimmune and allergic diseases. Survivin is constantly expressed in the proliferating hematopoietic progenitor cells, and it is re-expressed in the mature cells of the innate and adaptive immunity, upon activation. Survivin enhances the expression of co-stimulatory molecules and MHC class II molecules in dendritic cells, and promotes the lifespan of macrophages, neutrophils, and eosinophils, while suppressing natural killer (NK) cell activity. Survivin has been implicated in T cell maturation, T cell expansion, effector CD4⁺ T cell differentiation, maintenance of memory CD4⁺ T and CD8⁺ T cells, as well as antibody production. Upregulated expression of survivin was indicated in the T cells as well as various samples collected from allergic patients. Survivin can contribute to the pathogenesis of allergic diseases via the promotion of the Th2 polarization, promoting IL-4 expression, compromising activation-induced cell death (AICD) in Th2 cells, and preventing apoptosis of eosinophils, as well as, amplification of eosinophilia. Moreover, survivin can interfere with clonal deletion of autoreactive T and B cells, as well as suppress Treg cell development and activity supporting the development of autoimmune diseases. This review discusses the role of survivin in immunity, allergy and autoimmunity as well as provides evidence that survivin may be considered as a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of allergic and autoimmune diseases.

Association between septic patient mortality and blood survivin concentrations

OBJECTIVE

Survivin is a member of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins family. There are not data about the association between mortality of septic patients and blood survivin concentrations. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine whether exist that association.

DESIGN

Observational and prospective study.

SETTING

Three Spanish Intensive Care Units.

PATIENTS

Patients with sepsis or septic shock according to Sepsis-3 Consensus criteria.

INTERVENTIONS

Serum survivin concentrations were determined at moment of sepsis diagnosis.

MAIN VARIABLE OF INTEREST

Mortality at 30 days.

RESULTS

A total of 204 patients were included in the study, of which 75 (36.8%) died in the first 30 days. Lower age (p<0.001), serum lactic acid levels (p=0.001), rate of septic shock (p=0.001) and SOFA (p<0.001), and higher serum survivin levels (p=0.001) exhibited surviving (n=129) than non-surviving patients (n=75). We found in multiple logistic regression analysis an association between serum survivin concentrations and mortality independently of SOFA, lactic acid, age, INR, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and empiric antimicrobial treatment adequate (OR=0.968; 95% CI=0.946-0.990; p=0.005), and also independently of APACHE-II, lactic acid, platelet, INR, aPTT and empiric antimicrobial treatment adequate (OR=0.966; 95% CI=0.943-0.989; p=0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

There is an association between septic patient mortality and low blood survivin concentrations.

PI3K δ inhibitor PI-3065 induces apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by targeting survivin

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common malignant tumors worldwide, and its clinical treatment remains challenging. The development of new treatment regimens is important for effective HCC treatment. Phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K) is a lipid kinase that plays an important role in cell growth and metabolism and is overexpressed in nearly 50% of patients with HCC. Studies have shown that PI-3065, a small-molecule inhibitor of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase delta, significantly inhibits solid breast cancer. However, its antitumor effects against HCC and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. In the present study, we found that PI-3065 dose- and time-dependently reduced HCC cell viability and induced apoptosis while posing no obvious apoptotic toxicity in normal liver cells. Further mechanistic analysis showed that PI-3065 induced apoptosis mainly by inhibiting survivin protein expression, decreasing mitochondrial membrane potential, and promoting cytochrome C release. Simultaneously, PI-3065 markedly suppressed the colony formation, migration, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition abilities of HCC cells. Furthermore, transplantation of nude mice with HCC tumors showed that PI-3065 inhibits HCC tumor growth in vivo by targeting survivin. In summary, PI-3065 specifically inhibited survivin expression and exerted anti-HCC activity in vivo and in vitro, suggesting that it may serve as an effective antitumor drug for HCC treatment, which warrants further study.

Design, Synthesis, and Investigation of Cytotoxic Effects of 5-Hydroxyindole-3-Carboxylic Acid and Ester Derivatives as Potential Anti-breast Cancer Agents

Breast cancer is a deadly disease with a high prevalence rate among females. Despite several treatments, scientists are still engaged in finding less invasive treatments for this disease. The cellular proliferation rate and cell viability survey are critical to assess the drug's effect on both normal and malignant cell populations. Indole derivatives are promising candidates for their cytotoxic effect causing on breast cancer cells; however, they are less toxic on normal cells. This study synthesized 23 novel 5-hydroxyindole-3-carboxylic acids and related esters featuring various linear, cyclic, and primary aromatic amines. The MTT assay indicated the cytotoxicity of all acid and ester derivatives against the MCF-7 cells with no significant cytotoxicity on normal human dermal fibroblasts cells. Compound 5d, an ester derivative possessing a 4-methoxy group, was the most potent compound, with a half-maximal effective concentration of 4.7 µM. Compounds 5a, 5d, and 5l bearing ester group in their structure demonstrated cytotoxicity values < 10 µM against the MCF-7 cell line and were safe for advanced screening.