Survivin: a bifunctional inhibitor of apoptosis protein

Recent advances on quinoxalines as target-oriented chemotherapeutic anticancer agents through apoptosis

The current review outlines all possible recent synthetic platforms to quinoxaline derivatives and the potent stimulated apoptosis mechanisms targeted by anticancer therapies. The currently reported results disclosed that quinoxaline derivatives had promising anticancer potencies against a wide array of cancer cell lines, better than the reference drugs, through target inhibition. This review summarizes some potent quinoxaline derivatives with their synthesis strategies and their potential activities against various molecular targets. Quinoxalines can be considered an important scaffold for apoptosis inducers in cancer cells through inhibiting some molecular targets, so they can be further developed as target-oriented chemotherapeutics.

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.

Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells: Heralding an effective treatment against esophageal cancer?

Esophageal cancer (EC), as one of the leading causes of cancer-associated mortality, influences a remarkable population of subjects globally and is histologically divided into two types, comprising esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC). Although several therapeutic approaches are present for EC, such as radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and surgery, these options have low success with serious side effects, for example, gastrointestinal toxicity, esophagitis, and pulmonary complications. Thus, utilizing an effective tool with low side effects is urgent. Newly, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have received special interest for treating diverse diseases, such as cancer. Among different sources of MSCs, human umbilical cord MSCs have notable benefits, and reports expressed that they may be effective in EC treatment. For this purpose, in this review study, we aimed to summarize evidence regarding the effects of human umbilical cord MSCs on EC with a mechanistic insight.

Beneficial Proapoptotic Effect of Heterobasidion Annosum Extract in Colorectal Cancer Xenograft Mouse Model

Fungal extracts possess potential anticancer activity against many malignant neoplastic diseases. In this research, we focused on the evaluation of Heterobasidion annosum (HA) extract in colorectal cancer in an in vivo model. The mice with implanted DLD-1 human cancer cells were given HA extract, the referential drug-5-fluorouracil (5FU), or were treated with its combination. Thereafter, tumor volume was measured and apoptotic proteins such as caspase-8, caspase-3, p53, Bcl-2, and survivin were analyzed in mice serum with an ELISA assay. The Ki-67 protein was assessed in tumor cells by immunohistochemical examination. The biggest volumes of tumors were confirmed in the DLD-1 group, while the lowest were observed in the population treated with 5FU and/or HA extract. The assessment of apoptosis showed increased concentrations of caspase 8 and p53 protein after the combined administration of 5FU and HA extract. The levels of survivin and Bcl-2 were decreased in all tested groups compared to the DLD-1 group. Moreover, we observed a positive reaction for Ki-67 protein in all tested groups. Our findings confirm the apoptotic effect of extract given alone or with 5FU. The obtained results are innovative and provide a basis for further research concerning the antitumor activity of the HA extract, especially in the range of its interaction with an anticancer chemotherapeutic agent.

Effects of radiofrequency radiation on apoptotic and antiapoptotic factors in colorectal cancer cells

In this study, it is aimed to investigate the effect of radiofrequency radiation (RFR) on apoptotic and antiapoptotic factors under different exposure conditions in human colonic adenocarcinoma cells (Caco-2). We analyzed the effects of 2.5 GHz continuous wave and 3 GPP modulated radiofrequency radiation exposure (15 min on, 15 min off) for 1 h and (1 h on, 1 h off) for 3 hours on Caco-2 cell lines. The cell viability of Caco-2 cells was determined by XTT method. Then, the cells were analyzed by flow cytometry to determine the effects on apoptosis staining with AnnexinV-FITC and PI. Protein expression levels of Bcl-2, Bax, Caspase-3 and Survivin were subsequently analyzed by using flow cytometric methods. Bax, Caspase 8, and Survivin protein levels were also analyzed by western blot. The cell viability rates were not significantly different after 2.5 GHz of RFR exposure for 1 h, but RFR exposure for 3 h at 2.5 GHz frequencies caused a decrease on cell viability of Caco-2 cells. RFR exposure for 1 and 3 hours at 2.5 GHz frequencies resulted in an apoptotic response. Protein analyses of Bcl-2, Bax, Survivin, Caspase-3, and Caspase-8 showed that RFR led to increase the levels of proapoptotic Bax, Caspase-3, and Caspase 8 in Caco-2 cells under different exposure conditions. However, 3-h exposure caused a decrease in antiapoptotic survivin levels. The results of our study indicate that RFR exposure affects the cell death mechanism due to apoptotic pathway.

Factors Involved in the Apoptotic Cell Death Mechanism in Yellow Fever Hepatitis

Yellow fever (YF), a non-contagious infectious disease, is endemic or enzootic to the tropical regions of the Americas and Africa. Periodic outbreaks or epidemics have a significant impact on public health. Programmed cell death, or apoptosis, is generally characterised by distinct morphological changes and energy-dependent biochemical pathways. In this study, we performed immunohistochemistry analysis to identify and quantify proteases and protein targets involved in the cascade that triggers apoptosis in YF virus (YFV)-infected human hepatocytes. Liver tissue samples were collected from 26 individuals, among whom 21 were diagnosed as YF-positive, and five were flavivirus-negative and died due to other causes. The histopathological alterations in YFV-positive cases were characterised by the presence of apoptotic bodies, steatosis, cellular swelling, and extensive necrosis and haemorrhage in the hepatic lobules. Additionally, we observed an abundance of inflammatory infiltrates in the portal tract. The expression of various apoptotic markers in the hepatic parenchyma, including CASPASE 3, CASPASE 8, BAX, FAS, FASL, GRANZYME B, and SURVIVIN, differed between YFV-positive cases and controls. Collectively, this study confirmed the complexity of YFV infection-induced apoptosis in situ. However, our data suggest that apoptosis in liver parenchyma lesions may significantly contribute to the pathogenesis of fatal YF in humans.

Emerging Importance of Survivin in Stem Cells and Cancer: the Development of New Cancer Therapeutics

Survivin is one of the rare proteins that is differentially expressed in normal and cancer cells and is directly or indirectly involved in numerous pathways required for tumor maintenance. It is expressed in almost all cancers and its expression has been detected at early stages of cancer. These traits make survivin an exceptionally attractive target for cancer therapeutics. Even with these promising features to be an oncotherapeutic target, there has been limited success in the clinical trials targeting survivin. Only recently it has emerged that survivin was not being specifically targeted which could have resulted in the negative clinical outcome. Also, focus of research has now shifted from survivin expression in the overall heterogeneous tumor cell populations to survivin expression in cancer stem cells as these cells have proved to be the major drivers of tumors. Therefore, in this review we have analyzed the expression of survivin in normal and cancer cells with a particular focus on its expression in cancer stem cell compartment. We have discussed the major signaling pathways involved in regulation of survivin. We have explored the current development status of various types of interventions for inhibition of survivin. Furthermore, we have discussed the challenges involving the development of potent and specific survivin inhibitors for cancer therapeutics. Finally we have given insights for some of the promising future anticancer treatments.

Tiliacora racemosa leaves induce oxidative stress mediated DNA damage leading to G2/M phase arrest and apoptosis in cervical cancer cells SiHa

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The Menispermaceae plant Tiliacora racemosa is immensely popular in Indian traditional Ayurvedic medicine as "Krishnavetra" for its remarkable anti-cancerous property, and is commonly used by tribal population for the treatment of skin infections, snake bites and filariasis.

AIM OF THE STUDY

This present study intends to identify the modus operandi behind the cytotoxic activity of Tiliacora racemosa leaves in cervical cancer cells SiHa. Focus has been instilled in the ability of the plant extract to target multiple signaling pathways leading to cell cycle arrest and cell death in SiHa cells, followed by a pharmacological characterization to identify the bioactive principle.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

T. racemosa leaves extracted in methanol, ethyl acetate, hexane and aqueous solvent were screened for cytotoxicity in HeLa, SiHa, C33A (cervical cancer cells) and HEK cells by MTT assay. SiHa cells were treated with the most potent extract (TRM). Cellular morphology, clonogenic and wound healing potential, presence of intracellular ROS and NO, lipid peroxidation, activity of cellular antioxidants (SOD, CAT, GSH), DNA damage detection by comet assay and localisation of γ-H2AX foci, intracellular expression of PARP-1, Bax/Bcl2 and caspase-3, loss in mitochondrial membrane potential by JC1 (flow cytometry) and Rh123 (microscopy), cell cycle analysis, Annexin-FITC assay, AO/EtBr microscopy and apoptotic proteome profiling were undertaken in the treated cells. All the related proteins were studied by immunoblots. Effect of NAC (ROS-scavenger) on cell viability, DNA damage and apoptosis were studied. Phytochemical characterization of all TR extracts was followed by LC-MS analysis of TRM and isolated alkaloid of TR was assessed for cytotoxicity.

RESULTS

The methanol extract of T. racemosa (TRM) rich in bisbenzylisoquinoline and other alkaloids impeded the proliferation of cervical cancer cells SiHa in vitro through disruption of cellular redox homeostasis caused by increase in cellular ROS and NO with concomitant decrease in the cellular antioxidants. Double-stranded DNA damage was noted from γH2AX foci accumulation and Parp-1 activation leading to ATM-Chk2-p53 pathway arresting the cells at G2/M-phase through cyclin B1 inhibition. The mitochondrial membrane potential was also disturbed leading to caspase-3 dependent apoptotic induction by both extrinsic and intrinsic pathway. Immunoblots show TRM also inhibited PI3K/Akt and NFκB pathway. NAC pre-treatment rescued the cell viability proving DNA damage and apoptosis to be direct consequences of ROS overproduction. Lastly, the therapeutic potential of T. racemosa is was hypothesized to be possibly derived from its alkaloid content.

CONCLUSION

This study proves the age old ethnnopharmacological anticancer role of T. racemosa. The leaf extracts inhibited the anomalous proliferation of SiHa cells by virtue of G2/M-phase cell cycle arrest and apoptotic cell death. Oxidative stress mediated double stranded DNA damage paved the way towards apoptotic cell death through multiple routes, including PI3K/Akt/NFκB pathway. The abundant alkaloid content of T. racemosa was denoted as the probable responsible cytotoxic principle.

Efficient Stable Cell Line Generation of Survivin as an In Vitro Model for Specific Functional Analysis in Apoptosis and Drug Screening

Recognizing proteins that lead to a decreased efficiency of treatment in cancer cells constitutes a main goal for biomedical and biotechnological research and applications. Establishing recombinant cells that overexpress a gene of interest stably is important for treatment studies and drug/compound screening. Survivin is an anti-apoptotic protein which can be a potential candidate for regulating cell death and survival. To investigate the association between survivin increment and apoptosis rate, survivin-reconstituted HEK (HEK-S) cell was developed as in vitro model. RT-PCR and Western blot demonstrated that survivin was constitutively overexpressed in HEK-S cells. Both morphological observation and survival assay showed that HEK-S cells were significantly resistant to apoptotic stimuli. Survivin overexpression led to a decrease in caspase 3/7 activity, whereas YM155 led to a corresponding enhance of caspase activity. ROS level was decreased but ATP content increased in HEK-S cells. Also, HEK-S showed less red- fluorescence and reduced cell proliferation compared to HEK after stimulation. Resistance to laser irradiation was clearly visible as compared with control. Moreover, scratching analysis demonstrated the ability of survivin to cause neighboring cells to increase resistance to drug, whereas YM155 enhanced apoptotic rate and declined invasion in HEK-S cells.

Effects of doxorubicin and docetaxel on susceptibility to apoptosis in high expression level of survivin in HEK and HEK-S cell lines as in vitro models

A major problem in the cancer treatment is the inherent resistance to chemotherapy. Identifying proteins that, once introduced in cancer cells, lead to a decreased efficiency of treatment outcome constitutes a major goal for biomedical research and applications. Survivin is a protein of IAPs family which its high expression can be a potential candidate for regulating cell death and survival in cancer therapy. To investigate the association of survivin increment and resistance to drug, survivin-reconstituted HEK (HEK-S) and HEK cells were used as in vitro models for the doxorubicin and docetaxel cellular response. Both morphological observation and survival assay exhibited that survivin reconstitution cells were significantly resistant to apoptotic stimuli by both drugs. It was observed that survivin overexpression has led to a decrease in caspase 3/7 activity and ROS level of cells but an increase in ATP content. Also, survivin-reconstituted cell displayed less red fluorescence compared to control after stimulation by drugs. Moreover, wound healing assay showed the ability of survivin to cause neighbouring cells to increase resistance to induction. These findings demonstrated survivin could be a potential target that can be inhibited the function of different drugs with various mechanisms in chemotherapy.

Overview of the Anticancer Profile of Avenanthramides from Oat

Cancer represents one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Progresses in treatment of cancer have continued at a rapid pace. However, undesirable side effects and drug resistance remain major challenges for therapeutic success. Natural products represent a valuable starting point to develop new anticancer strategies. Polyphenols, well-known as antioxidant, exert anticancer effects through the modulation of multiple pathways and mechanisms. Oat (Avena sativa L., Poaceae) is a unique source of avenanthramides (AVAs), a group of polyphenolic alkaloids, considered as its signature compounds. The present review aims to offer a comprehensive and critical perspective on the chemopreventive and chemotherapeutic potential of AVAs. AVAs prevent cancer mainly by blocking reactive species. Moreover, they exhibit potential therapeutic activity through the modulation of different pathways including the activation of apoptosis and senescence, the block of cell proliferation, and the inhibition of epithelial mesenchymal transition and metastatization. AVAs are promising chemopreventive and anticancer phytochemicals, which need further clinical trials and toxicological studies to define their efficacy in preventing and reducing the burden of cancer diseases.

An Inhibitor of the Interaction of Survivin with Smac in Mitochondria Promotes Apoptosis

Herein we report the first small molecule that disrupts the survivin-Smac interaction taking place in mitochondria. The inhibitor, PZ-6-QN, was identified by initially screening a phenothiazine library using a fluorescence anisotropy assay and then conducting a structure-activity relationship study. Mutagenesis and molecular docking studies suggest that PZ-6-QN binds to survivin similarly to the known Smac peptide, AVPI. The results of the effort also show that PZ-6-QN exhibits good anticancer activity against various cancer cells. Moreover, cell-based mechanistic studies provide evidence for the proposal that PZ-6-QN enters mitochondria to inhibit the survivin-Smac interaction and promotes release of Smac and cytochrome c from mitochondria into the cytosol, a process that induces apoptosis in cancer cells. Overall, the present study suggests that PZ-6-QN can serve as a novel chemical probe for study of processes associated with the mitochondrial survivin-Smac interaction and it will aid the discovery of novel anticancer agents.

Toward early cancer detection: Focus on biosensing systems and biosensors for an anti-apoptotic protein survivin and survivin mRNA

The development of biosensors for cancer biomarkers has recently been expanding rapidly, offering promising biomedical applications of these sensors as highly sensitive, selective, and inexpensive bioanalytical tools that can provide alternative methodology to that afforded by the advanced hyphenated-instrumental techniques. In this review, we focus particularly on the detection of a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) family, protein survivin (Sur), a ubiquitous re-organizer of the cell life cycle with the ability to inhibit the apoptosis and induce an enhanced proliferation leading to the unimpeded cancer growth and metastasis. Herein, we critically evaluate the progress in the development of novel biosensing systems and biosensors for the detection of two survivin (Sur) biomarkers: the Sur protein and its messenger RNA (Sur mRNA), including immunosensors, electrochemical piezo- and impedance-sensors, electrochemi-luminescence biosensors, genosensors based on oligonucleotide molecular beacons (MBs) with fluorescent or electrochemical transduction, as well as the microfluidic and related analytical platforms based on solution chemistry. The in-situ applications of survivin biomarkers' detection technologies to equip nanocarriers of the controlled drug delivery systems with MB-based fluorescence imaging capability, apoptosis control, and mitigation of the acquired drug resistance are also presented and critically evaluated. Finally, we turn the attention to the application of biosensors for the analysis of Sur biomarkers in exosomes and circulating tumor cells for a non-invasive liquid biopsy. The prospect of a widespread screening for early cancers, based on inexpensive point-of-care testing using biosensors and multiplex biosensor arrays, as a means of reducing the high cancer fatality rate, is discussed.

Aqueous Humor Markers in Retinoblastoma, a Review

Purpose

Retinoblastoma (Rb) is the most common primary intraocular cancer in children. Unlike with most solid tumors, direct biopsy is contraindicated due to risk of tumor dissemination. However, recent therapeutic techniques have allowed for the safe extraction of aqueous humor (AH) from eyes undergoing therapy, providing the unique opportunity to use AH as a liquid biopsy for Rb. Although the extraction of AH in Rb eyes undergoing therapy is new, the consideration of whether there are tumor biomarkers in the AH is not. The current manuscript is a systematic review of all studies that have examined biomarkers in the AH of Rb eyes. The authors hypothesized that AH sampling and analysis of tumor biomarkers may have new clinical relevance for the diagnosis, prognosis, and/or management of Rb.

Methods

A comprehensive database search (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, and Cochrane Databases) was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses statement to identify articles on AH markers in Rb eyes. Inclusion criteria included English language articles with original reports on AH markers in the eyes of patients with confirmed Rb. Data on marker type, number of eyes, marker means and ranges, and when available, control values and clinicopathological correlations were collected. Articles were stratified based on marker type, and assessed quantitatively and qualitatively.

Results

An initial database search produced 325 articles, and an additional 11 articles were identified through searching citations. After removing duplicates and applying the eligibility criteria, we selected 27 articles to be included in the current review. A total of 463 eyes with histologically confirmed Rb were included in this review. The various markers and their values, with comparison to controls and clinicopathological correlations, are discussed.

Conclusions

AH sampling and tumor biomarker analysis in eyes without undergoing enucleation have the potential to revolutionize the management of Rb.

Translational Relevance

Although previous studies evaluated markers in the AH only after enucleation and not at diagnosis or during therapy, the clinical relevance of these markers was limited. However, recent changes in the management of Rb have allowed for safe sampling of the aqueous during therapy and, thus, correlation of tumor biomarkers with disease course. Thus, the authors felt it important to revisit previous research to evaluate whether these markers may now be applicable for the diagnosis, prognosis, or management of Rb

Effect of Weightlessness on the 3D Structure Formation and Physiologic Function of Human Cancer Cells

With the rapid development of modern medical technology and the deterioration of living environments, cancer, the most important disease that threatens human health, has attracted increasing concerns. Although remarkable achievements have been made in tumor research during the past several decades, a series of problems such as tumor metastasis and drug resistance still need to be solved. Recently, relevant physiological changes during space exploration have attracted much attention. Thus, space exploration might provide some inspiration for cancer research. Using on ground different methods in order to simulate microgravity, structure and function of cancer cells undergo many unique changes, such as cell aggregation to form 3D spheroids, cell-cycle inhibition, and changes in migration ability and apoptosis. Although numerous better experiments have been conducted on this subject, the results are not consistent. The reason might be that different methods for simulation have been used, including clinostats, random positioning machine (RPM) and rotating wall vessel (RWV) and so on. Therefore, we review the relevant research and try to explain novel mechanisms underlying tumor cell changes under weightlessness.

Apoptosis and proliferation during human salivary gland development

Human salivary gland (SG) branching morphogenesis is an intricate mechanism divided into stages, prebud, initial bud, pseudoglandular, canalicular, and terminal bud, to form the final lobular structure of the organ. The coordination of molecular cascades, including cell proliferation and apoptosis, are fundamental to this process. The intrinsic apoptosis pathway appears to be important in the early phases of ductal cavitation and luminisation; however, the role of the extrinsic apoptosis pathway has still to be determined. Questions remain as to whether the latter mechanism participates in the maintenance of the ductal lumen; therefore, the present study investigated the expression of proteins Prostate apoptosis response-4 (Par-4), Fas cell surface death receptor (Fas), Fas ligand (FasL), pleckstrin homology-like domain family A member 1 (PHLDA1), caspase-3, B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), survivin, Ki-67, mucin 1 (MUC1), and secreted protein acidic and cysteine-rich (SPARC) during distinct phases of human SG development (50 specimens). This strategy aimed to draw an immunomorphological map of the proteins involved in apoptosis, cell proliferation, and tissue maturation during the SG branching morphogenesis process. Par-4 was positive at all stages except the pre-acinar phase. Fas and FasL were expressed in few cells. PHLDA1 was expressed in all phases but not in the terminal bud. Bcl-2 expression was mainly negative (expressed in few cells). Survivin showed a cytoplasmic expression pattern in the early phases of development, which changed to a predominantly nuclear expression during development into more differentiated structures. Ki-67 was expressed mainly at the pseudoglandular stage. MUC1 was positive in the pseudoglandular stage with a cytoplasmic pattern in regions of early luminal opening. Immunostaining for SPARC and caspase-3 was negative. Our results suggest that proteins associated with the regulation of extrinsic and intrinsic apoptosis contribute to apoptosis during specific phases of the early formation of SGs in humans.

Survivin rs9904341 polymorphism significantly increased the risk of cancer: evidence from an updated meta-analysis of case-control studies

AIMS

Survivin, a member of inhibitor of apoptosis protein family, is involved in the regulation of cell cycle and apoptosis. Several studies inspected the association between survivin polymorphisms and the risk of various cancers, but the findings remain controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis intending to certify the association between survivin polymorphisms and cancer risk.

METHODS

All analyses were achieved using RevMan 5.3 software and STATA 14.1 software. Eligible studies were collected by comprehensive literature searching Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Google scholar databases. Pooled estimates of odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to assess the overall impact of survivin polymorphisms on cancer risk.

RESULTS

The overall analysis indicates that survivin rs9904341 polymorphism significantly increased the risk of cancer in homozygous codominant (OR 1.41, 95% CI 1.19-1.68, p = 0.0001, CC vs GG), dominant (OR 1.22, 95% CI 1.07-1.40, p = 0.003, CG+CC vs GG), recessive (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.18-1.52, p < 0.0001, CC vs CG+GG), and allele (OR 1.20, 95% CI 1.09-1.31, p = 0.0001, C vs G) inheritance models tested. Stratified based on ethnicity revealed that rs9904341 variant significantly increased the risk of cancer in the Asian population. The findings did not support an association between rs1042489, rs2071214, rs8073069, and rs17878467 polymorphisms and risk of cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The current study suggests that the survivin rs9904341 polymorphism may be associated with the risk of cancer either overall or in the Asian population. However, further larger and well-designed studies are warranted to evaluate this association in detail.

Insight into the negative impact of ionic liquid: A cytotoxicity mechanism of 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium bromide

Ionic liquids (ILs) as a green replacement for volatile organic solvents are increasingly used in large-scale commercial applications. A good understanding of the toxic mechanisms and environmental impact of ILs is neede to reduce the risk for human health and the environment. For this purpose, we aimed to evaluate the possible impacts of 1-methyl-3-octylimidazolium bromide ([C₈mim]Br) exposure on human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells as to elucidate the cytotoxic mechanism of [C₈mim]Br. Biochemical assays revealed that [C₈mim]Br exposure altered the protein levels of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) and HSP90, generally inhibiting total antioxidative capacity (T-AOC), depleting heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) and increasing transcription and activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in HepG2 cells. These results indicated that [C₈mim]Br may induce biochemical disturbances and cause oxidative stress in HepG2 cells. Moreover, increased phosphorylation of p53, mitochondrial membrane disruption, cyclooxygenase-2 activation, Bcl-2 family protein modulation, cytochrome c and Smac/DIABLO release, and inhibition of apoptosis inhibitory protein-2 (c-IAP2) and survivin were also observed in [C₈mim]Br-treated cells, suggesting that [C₈mim]Br-induced apoptosis might be mediated by the mitochondrial pathway. Further research showed that [C₈mim]Br exposure increased tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α) transcription and content and promoted the expression of Fas and FasL, indicating that TNF-α and Fas/FasL are involved in the apoptosis induced by [C₈mim]Br. Additionally, [C₈mim]Br cytotoxicity was partly inhibited by N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC), and NAC reversed [C₈mim]Br-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction and blocked apoptotic events by inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). This work first demonstrated that the ROS-mediated mitochondrial and death receptor-initiated apoptotic pathway is involved in [C₈mim]Br-induced HepG2 cell apoptosis.

The novel mechanism of anticancer effect on gastric cancer through inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest and caspase-dependent apoptosis in vitro and in vivo by methionine enkephalin

Background

Gastric cancer (GC) is the second cause of cancer-related deaths. Methionine enkephalin (MENK), an endogenous opioid peptide, has immunological and antitumor activity.

Purpose

The aim of this work was to investigate whether MENK could exhibit activity against human GC in vitro and in vivo.

Materials and methods

Human GC cells were treated with MENK. Cell viability, colony formation, cell morphology, cell cycle, and apoptosis were assessed. The effects of MENK on gene expression of OGFr, Bax, BCL-2, caspase-3, PARP, Ki67, cyclin D1, c-myc, survivin were quantifed by qRT-PCR. Western blot was used to analyze the effects of MENK on protein expression of OGFr, Bax, BCL-2, caspase-3, PARP. The anti-tumor activity of MENK in gastic carcinoma was also investigated with animal experiments.

Results

The results indicate that MENK could significantly inhibit the growth of human GC cells SGC7901 and HGC27 in a concentration- and time-dependent manner, decrease the number of cell colonies, and arrest cell cycle in the G0/G1 phase by causing a decrease in Ki67, cyclin D1, and c-myc mRNA. Furthermore, MENK could induce tumor cell apoptosis associated with the upregulation of Bax, a corresponding downregulation of BCL-2 and survivin, and activation of caspase-3 and PARP. Moreover, MENK upregulated the expression of opioid receptors (OGFr) in SGC7901 and HGC27 cells. The interaction between MENK and OGFr in SGC7901 and HGC27 cells appears to be essential for the antitumor activity of MENK.

Conclusion

We conclude that MENK may be a potential drug for the treatment of GC.

A Combination of Moringin and Avenanthramide 2f Inhibits the Proliferation of Hep3B Liver Cancer Cells Inducing Intrinsic and Extrinsic Apoptosis

Moringin (MOR), a glycosyl-isothiocyanate obtained by myrosinase-catalyzed hydrolysis of the precursor 4-(α-l-rhamnosyloxy)-benzyl glucosinolate (glucomoringin), found predominantly in the seeds of Moringa oleifera, shows anticancer effects against several cancer cell lines. Avenanthramide (AVN) 2f is a phytochemical purified from oats with antioxidant and anticancer properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the antiproliferative and proapoptotic effects of MOR and AVN 2f used alone and in combination on Hep3B cancer cells, which are highly resistant to conventional anticancer drugs. We found that a cocktail of MOR and AVN 2f significantly inhibited the Hep3B proliferation rate by markedly increasing the activity of caspases 2, 8, 9, and 3. Extrinsic apoptosis was induced by the AVN 2f-mediated activation of caspase 8, while the intrinsic apoptotic pathway was triggered by MOR-induced increase in the levels of intracellular reactive oxygen species, MOR-mediated activation of caspases 2 and 9 and the MOR-mediated downregulation of the prosurvival gene BIRC5. Our results suggest that the combination MOR + AVN 2f could be an effective chemopreventive cocktail against the development of hepatocarcinoma.

Kaempferol, a natural dietary flavonoid, suppresses 17β-estradiol-induced survivin expression and causes apoptotic cell death in endometrial cancer

Endometrioid endometrial carcinoma, commonly known as type 1 endometrial cancer, accounts for >80% of endometrial carcinomas and is dependent on estrogen. We recently reported on the prognostic significance of the BIRC5 survivin gene in endometrial cancer. Estradiol induces survivin expression in estrogen receptor-positive, but not in estrogen receptor-negative, cancer cells. Kaempferol, a bioflavonoid, reportedly inhibits estrogen receptor-α (ERα) in hormone receptor-positive breast cancer cells. However, whether kaempferol-mediated inhibition of ERα suppresses survivin and induces cell death in endometrial cancer remains unclarified. The present study evaluated the antitumor effects of kaempferol on endometrial cancer cells. Cell viability assays, flow cytometry analysis, western blotting and annexin V analyses were used to analyze the antitumor effects of kaempferol. The results demonstrated that kaempferol successfully suppressed the viability of two ER-positive endometrial cancer cell lines, with IC₅₀ values of 83 and 65 µM. In addition, kaempferol induced sub-G1 cell accumulation and apoptotic cell death (P<0.01) in a dose-dependent manner. Treatment of cells with estradiol significantly induced co-expression of nuclear ERα and survivin proteins (P<0.001). Further evaluation revealed that kaempferol causes apoptotic cell death largely by suppressing ERα, survivin and Bcl-2 protein. Therefore, the results of the present study suggested that targeting ERα and survivin with kaempferol may be a novel therapeutic option against endometrial carcinoma.

ROS modifiers and NOX4 affect the expression of the survivin-associated radio-adaptive response

The survivin-associated radio-adaptive response can be induced following exposure to ionizing radiation in the dose range from 5 to 100 mGy, and its magnitude of expression is dependent upon the TP53 mutational status of cells and ROS signaling. The purpose of the study was to investigate the potential role of ROS in the development of the survivin-associated adaptive response. Utilizing human colon carcinoma HCT116 TP53 wild type (WT) and HCT116 isogenic TP53 null mutant (Mut) cell cultures, the roles of inter- and intracellular ROS signaling on expression of the adaptive response as evidenced by changes in intracellular translocation of survivin measured by ELISA, and cell survival determined by a standard colony forming assay were investigated using ROS modifying agents that include emodin, N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC), fulvene-5, honokiol, metformin and rotenone. The role of NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) in the survivin-associated adaptive response was investigated by transfecting HCT116 cells, both WT and Mut, with two different NOX4 siRNA oligomers and Western blotting. A dose of 5 mGy or a 15 min exposure to 50 µM of the ROS producing drug emodin were equally effective in inducing a pro-survival adaptive response in TP53 WT and a radio-sensitization adaptive response in TP53 Mut HCT116 cells. Each response was associated with a corresponding translocation of survivin into the cytoplasm or nucleus, respectively. Exposure to 10 mM NAC completely inhibited both responses. Exposure to 10 µM honokiol induced responses similar to those observed following NAC exposure in TP53 WT and Mut cells. The mitochondrial complex 1 inhibitor rotenone was effective in reducing both cytoplasmic and nuclear survivin levels, but was ineffective in altering the expression of the adaptive response in either TP53 WT or Mut cells. In contrast, both metformin and fulvene-5, inhibitors of NOX4, facilitated the reversal of TP53 WT and Mut adaptive responses from pro-survival to radio-sensitization and vice versa, respectively. These changes were accompanied by corresponding reversals in the translocation of survivin to the nuclei of TP53 WT and to the cytoplasm of TP53 Mut cells. The potential role of NOX4 in the expression of the survivin-associated adaptive response was investigated by transfecting HCT116 cells with NOX4 siRNA oligomers to inhibit NOX4 expression. Under these conditions NOX4 expression was inhibited by about 50%, resulting in a reversal in the expression of the TP53 WT and Mut survivin-associated adaptive responses as was observed following metformin and fulvene-5 treatment. Exposure to 5 mGy resulted in enhanced NOX4 expression by about 40% in both TP53 WT and Mut cells, in contrast to only a 1-2% increase following a 2 Gy only exposure. Utilizing mixed cultures of HCT116 TP53 WT and isogenic null Mut cells, as few as 10% TP53 Mut cells were sufficient to control the expression of the remaining 90% WT cells and resulted in an overall radio-sensitization response accompanied by the nuclear translocation of survivin characteristic of homogeneous TP53 Mut populations.

Honokiol Radiosensitizes Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck by Downregulation of Survivin

Purpose: Previous studies revealed diverging results regarding the role of survivin in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (SCCHN). This study aimed to evaluate the clinical significance of survivin expression in SCCHN; the function of survivin in DNA-damage repair following ionizing radiation therapy (RT) in SCCHN cells; and the potential of honokiol to enhance RT through downregulation of survivin.Experimental Design: Expression of survivin in SCCHN patient primary tumor tissues (n = 100) was analyzed and correlated with clinical parameters. SCCHN cell lines were used to evaluate the function of survivin and the effects of honokiol on survivin expression in vitro and in vivoResults: Overexpression of survivin was significantly associated with lymph nodes' metastatic status (P = 0.025), worse overall survival (OS), and disease-free survival (DFS) in patients receiving RT (n = 65, OS: P = 0.024, DFS: P = 0.006) and in all patients with SCCHN (n = 100, OS: P = 0.002, DFS: P = 0.003). In SCCHN cells, depletion of survivin led to increased DNA damage and cell death following RT, whereas overexpression of survivin increased clonogenic survival. RT induced nuclear accumulation of survivin and its molecular interaction with γ-H2AX and DNA-PKCs. Survivin specifically bound to DNA DSB sites induced by I-SceI endonuclease. Honokiol (which downregulates survivin expression) in combination with RT significantly augmented cytotoxicity in SCCHN cells with acquired radioresistance and inhibited growth in SCCHN xenograft tumors.Conclusions: Survivin is a negative prognostic factor and is involved in DNA-damage repair induced by RT. Targeting survivin using honokiol in combination with RT may provide novel therapeutic opportunities. Clin Cancer Res; 24(4); 858-69. ©2017 AACR.

Molecular docking analysis of aplysin analogs targeting survivin protein

Survivin (IAP proteins) remains an important target for anticancer drug development as it is reported to be over-expressed in tumor cells to enhance resistance to apoptotic stimuli. The study focuses on virtual screening of marine compounds inhibiting survivin, a multifunctional protein, using a computational approach. Structures of compounds were prepared using ChemDraw Ultra 10. Software and converted into its 3D PDB structure and its energy was minimized using Discovery Studio client 2.5. The target protein, survivin was retrieved from RCSB PDB. Lipinski's rule and ADMET toxicity profiling was carried out on marine compounds and the filtered compounds were further promoted for molecular docking analysis and interaction studies using AutoDock Tools 4.0. Molecular docking results revealed that analog (AP 4) of Aplysin, showed very promising inhibitory potential against survivin with a binding energy of -8.75 kcal/mol and Ki 388.28 nM as compared to its known inhibitor, Celecoxib having binding energy of -6.65 kcal/mol and Ki 13.43 μM. AP 4. The analog depicted similarity in pattern when compared to standard. The result proposes AP 4, is an effective molecule exhibiting prominent potential to inhibit survivin and thus promoting apoptosis in tumor cells.

Clinicalpathological and prognostic significance of survivin expression in renal cell carcinoma: a meta-analysis

Background

In recent years, survivin expression had been investigated as a prognostic biomarker for renal cell carcinoma (RCC), however, the results were conflicting. This study was aimed to explore the association between survivin expression and clinicalpathological features and the prognostic value for cancer-specific survival (CSS) and overall survival (OS) in RCC.

Results

Eleven studies with 1,697 subjects were included in this meta-analysis. The results showed that survivin expression was associated with higher tumor grade (OR=4.25, 95%CI: 3.04-5.95, p<0.001), advanced tumor stage (OR=3.83, 95%CI: 2.01-7.3, p<0.001) and lymph node metastasis (OR=4.19, 95%CI: 2.34-7.52, p<0.001), but had no association with age, gender or distant metastasis. In addition, survivin expression was also correlated with poor CSS (HR=2.08, 95%CI: 1.07-4.05, p=0.032) and poor OS (HR=2.28, 95%CI: 1.57-3.33, p<0.001).

Materials and Methods

Literature was searched by PubMed, Embase and Web of Science. Hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were extracted from eligible studies. Fixed or random effects model were used to calculate pooled HRs and 95%CIs according to heterogeneity.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that survivin expression was associated with more aggressive clinical features and predicted poor CSS and OS in patients with RCC.

TP53 Mutational Status and ROS Effect the Expression of the Survivin-Associated Radio-Adaptive Response

A survivin-associated radio-adaptive response, characterized by increased radiation resistance or sensitization, was induced by exposure to 5 mGy of ionizing radiation and was correlated to the TP53 mutational status of exposed cells. Ten human cancer lines were investigated: colorectal carcinomas HCT116 and RKO [TP53 wild-type (WT)] and their respective TP53 null isogenic lines; breast adenocarcinomas MCF7 (TP53 WT) and MDA-MB-231 (TP53 Mut); lung carcinomas A549 (TP53 WT) and NCI-H1975 (TP53 Mut); and pancreatic carcinomas Hs766T (TP53 WT) and Panc-1 (TP53 Mut). Radiation induced (5 mGy) changes in the subsequent responses to 2 Gy in a multi-dose paradigm. Effects on radiation sensitivity were associated with changes in survivin's intracellular translocation to the cytoplasm (TP53 WT) or nucleus (TP53 Mut). Survival responses were determined using a colony forming assay. Intracellular localization of survivin was determined by ELISA and correlated with survival response. Two 2 Gy doses had minimal effects on the intracellular translocation of survivin. When preceded 15 min earlier by a 5 mGy exposure, survivin translocated to the cytoplasm in all of the TP53 WT cell lines, and to the nuclei in the TP53 null and Mut cells. All TP53 WT cells were protected (P < 0.001) by 5 mGy exposures, while Mut cells were sensitized (P < 0.001). HCT116 and RKO TP53 WT cells were admixed with their respective isogenic TP53 null counterparts in different proportions: 75% to 25%, 50% to 50% and 25% to 75%, respectively. All mixed confluent cultures expressed enhanced radio-sensitization (P ≤ 0.047) characteristic of TP53 Mut cells, which could be inhibited by their exposure to the antioxidant N-acetyl-l-cysteine (NAC) indicating a role for intercellular signaling by reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS signaling in propagating the survivin-mediated response is involved in both intra- and intercellular communication processes.

Enhancement of apoptotic activities on brain cancer cells via the combination of γ-tocotrienol and jerantinine A

BACKGROUND

γ-Tocotrienol, a vitamin E isomer possesses pronounced in vitro anticancer activities. However, the in vivo potency has been limited by hardly achievable therapeutic levels owing to inefficient high-dose oral delivery which leads to subsequent metabolic degradation. Jerantinine A, an Aspidosperma alkaloid, originally isolated from Tabernaemontana corymbosa, has proved to possess interesting anticancer activities. However, jerantinine A also induces toxicity to non-cancerous cells.

PURPOSE

We adopted a combinatorial approach with the joint application of γ-tocotrienol and jerantinine A at lower concentrations in order to minimize toxicity towards non-cancerous cells while improving the potency on brain cancer cells.

METHODS

The antiproliferative potency of individual γ-tocotrienol and jerantinine A as well as combined in low-concentration was firstly evaluated on U87MG cancer and MRC5 normal cells. Morphological changes, DNA damage patterns, cell cycle arrests and the effects of individual and combined low-concentration compounds on microtubules were then investigated. Finally, the potential roles of caspase enzymes and apoptosis-related proteins in mediating the apoptotic mechanisms were investigated using apoptosis antibody array, ELISA and Western blotting analysis.

RESULTS

Combinatorial study between γ-tocotrienol at a concentration range (0-24µg/ml) and fixed IC₂₀ concentration of jerantinine A (0.16µg/ml) induced a potent antiproliferative effect on U87MG cells and led to a reduction on the new half maximal inhibitory concentration of γ-tocotrienol (i.e._tIC₅₀=1.29µg/ml) as compared to that of individual γ-tocotrienol (i.e. IC₅₀=3.17µg/ml). A reduction on undesirable toxicity to MRC5 normal cells was also observed. G0/G1 cell cycle arrest was evident on U87MG cells receiving IC₅₀ of individual γ-tocotrienol and combined low-concentration compounds (1.29µg/ml γ-tocotrienol + 0.16µg/ml jerantinine A), whereas, a profound G2/M arrest was evident on cells treated with IC₅₀ of individual jerantinine A. Additionally, individual jerantinine A and combined compounds (except individual γ-tocotrienol) caused a disruption of microtubule networks triggering Fas- and p53-induced apoptosis mediated via the death receptor and mitochondrial pathways.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings demonstrated that the combined use of lower concentrations of γ-tocotrienol and jerantinine A induced potent cytotoxic effects on U87MG cancer cells resulting in a reduction on the required individual concentrations and thereby minimizing toxicity of jerantinine A towards non-cancerous MRC5 cells as well as probably overcoming the high-dose limiting application of γ-tocotrienol. The multi-targeted mechanisms of action of the combination approach have shown a therapeutic potential against brain cancer in vitro and therefore, further in vivo investigations using a suitable animal model should be the way forward.

Survivin expression pattern in the intestine of normoxic and ischemic rats

Background

Survivin, a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family, regulates mitosis and chromosome segregation. The expression of survivin proceeds during embryonic development and in addition has already been demonstrated in cancer cells. However, there is also evidence of survivin expression in differentiated tissues, including the gastro-intestinal tract of adult rats. A study with human colon specimens exhibited survivin in most basal crypt epithelial cells of normal mucosa. There is rather limited information on survivin expression in the small intestine. In order to paint a more detailed and thus complete picture of survivin expression patterns in the gastrointestinal tract, we used an immunohistochemical approach in normal adult rat small intestinal and ascending colonic tissue. Moreover, to get deeper insights in the regulation of survivin expression after tissue damage, we also studied its expression in mesenteric ischemia-reperfusion (I/R) injury.

Methods

Mesenteric ischemia-reperfusion injury was induced in male Wistar rats (six animals/group) by occlusion of the superior mesenteric artery for 90 min and subsequent reperfusion for 120 min. Paraffin sections of untreated or ischemically treated tissue were assessed immunohistochemically by survivin and Ki-67 staining.

Results

Survivin could be detected in the small intestine and ascending colon of the normoxia group. It was expressed mainly in the epithelial cells of the crypts and only marginally in the villi. The individual small intestinal segments studied revealed comparable staining intensities. Likewise, expression of survivin was detected in the ischemically damaged small intestine and ascending colon. The expression pattern corresponded to the normoxic animals, as far as verifiable due to the existing tissue damage. Comparison of the expression pattern of Ki-67, a protein that acts as a cellular marker for proliferation, and survivin demonstrated a coincidental localization of the two proteins in the small intestinal and ascending colonic tissue.

Conclusions

Survivin was expressed strongly in epithelial cells of small intestinal as well as ascending colonic tissue. Its expression was located in cells with a high proliferation rate and regenerative capacity. This further supports the decisive role of survivin in cell division. Surprisingly, the ischemically damaged small intestinal and ascending colonic tissue showed a comparably high expression level. These results suggest that there is already a maximal survivin expression under normal conditions. However, the intestine is able to maintain the regenerative capacity even in spite of an ischemic injury. These findings reflect the important relevance of an intact intestinal barrier.

Targeting survivin for therapeutic discovery: past, present, and future promises

Survivin, the smallest member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family, is overexpressed in cells of almost all cancers but not in most normal tissues in adults. Survivin expression is required for cancer cell survival and knocking down its expression or inhibiting its function using molecular approaches results in spontaneous apoptosis. Thus, survivin is an attractive and perhaps ideal target for cancer drug discovery. However, a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved drug targeting survivin has yet to emerge. In this Foundation Review, we examine and evaluate various strategies that have been used to target survivin and the stages of each survivin inhibitor to help understand this lack of success. We also provide future perspectives moving forward in targeting survivin for drug discovery.

HSP90 inhibitor NVP-AUY922 induces cell apoptosis by disruption of the survivin in papillary thyroid carcinoma cells

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a molecular chaperone required for maintaining the stability and function of signal proteins that plays an important role in promoting the growth and survival of cancer cells. The incidence of papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has been increasing in recent years. The effect of the novel non-geldanamycin HSP90 inhibitor NVP-AUY922 on apoptosis of papillary thyroid carcinoma cells has not been investigated. The influence of AUY922 on the survival of PTC cell lines K1 and IHH4 was evaluated. Cell viability was determined by cell counting kit method. Cell apoptosis was assessed by flow cytometry and western blotting and the potential mechanism was evaluated by western blotting and immunoprecipitation. Overexpression plasmid was transfected by Lipofectamine 2000 method. In K1 and IHH4 cell lines, after the treatment of AUY922, cell viability decreased, and the proportion of apoptosis cells increased. AUY922 caused the cleavage of PARP and caspase-3 proteins, and altered expression of survivin, which was a client protein of HSP90. In AUY922-treated cells, overexpression of survivin attenuated growth inhibition and cell apoptosis. The results indicate that AUY922 induces apoptotic cell death in PTC cells. Moreover, our findings demonstrate that AUY922 induced apoptosis by downregulating the expression of survivin protein in PTC cells.

Hypothyroidism reduces mammary tumor progression via Β-catenin-activated intrinsic apoptotic pathway in rats

Experimental hypothyroidism retards mammary carcinogenesis promoting apoptosis of tumor cells. β-catenin plays a critical role in cell adhesion and intracellular signaling pathways conditioning the prognosis of breast cancer. However, the mechanistic connections associated with the expression of β-catenin in thyroid status and breast cancer are not known. Therefore, we studied the relationship between the expression and localization of β-catenin and apoptosis in mammary tumors induced by 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA) in hypothyroid (Hypot) and euthyroid (EUT) rats. Female Sprague Dawley rats were treated with a dose of DMBA (15 mg/rat) at 55 days of age and were then divided into two groups: HypoT (0.01% 6-N-propyl-2-thiouracil in drinking water, n = 54) and EUT (untreated control, n = 43). Latency, incidence and progression of tumors were determined. At sacrifice, tumors were obtained for immunohistological studies and Western Blot. The latency was longer (p < 0.05), the incidence was lower (p < 0.0001) and tumor growth was slower (p < 0.01) in HypoT rats compared to EUT. The expression of Bax, cleaved caspase-9 and caspase-3 was significantly higher in tumors of HypoT than in EUT (p < 0.05) indicating the activation of the intrinsic pathway. In this group, β-catenin was expressed in the plasma membrane and with less intensity, while its expression was nuclear and with greater intensity in the EUT (p < 0.05). Moreover, the expression of survivin was reduced in tumors of HypoT rats (p < 0.05). In conclusion, decreased expression of β-catenin and its normal location in membrane of mammary tumors are associated with augmented apoptosis via activation of the intrinsic pathway in HypoT rats.

Clinicopathological significance of survivin expression in patients with cervical cancer: A systematic meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Survivin has been shown to play an important role in cancer pathogenesis. However, its role in cervical cancer development is still controversial. This study was performed to evaluate the clinical significance of survivin expression in cervical cancer.

METHODS

Search of some online electronic databases was conducted to identify available studies. The pooled odds ratios (ORs) with its 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated and analyzed.

RESULTS

Finally, 18 eligible studies with 791 cervical cancer patients, 1,013 cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) lesions, 199 normal cervical tissues, and 95 samples with chronic cervicitis were identified in this analysis. The pooled OR of survivin expression was found to be significantly higher in the samples from cervical cancer than in those from CIN lesions, normal cervical tissues, and chronic cervicitis. When cervical cancer was compared to CIN lesions, the subgroup analysis by ethnicity showed that survivin expression was associated with a risk of cervical cancer in Asians (P < 0.001), but not in Caucasians (P = 0.659). In addition, survivin was significantly more overexpressed in high-grade cervical cancer than in low-grade cervical cancer. Its expression was also more elevated in advanced-stage patients than in early-stage patients, in lymph node metastasis than in lymph node without metastasis, and in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) than in adenocarcinoma (AC).

CONCLUSIONS

The expression of survivin may play a key role in the carcinogenesis, progression, and metastasis of cervical cancer. However, survivin expression may be involved in the progression of CIN lesions only in the Asian population. Survivin expression is associated with an increased risk of SCC. Additional studies with larger sample sizes are needed in the future to confirm our findings.

Clinical significance of high levels of survivin and transforming growth factor beta-1 proteins in aqueous humor and serum of retinoblastoma patients

PURPOSE

To evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic values of survivin and transforming growth factor beta-1 (TGF-B1) expression in aqueous humor and serum of retinoblastoma (RB) in comparison to the conventional RB marker lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) and to elucidate a possible correlation between them and the clinicopathological features of the disease.

METHODS

This prospective, comparative study included 88 newly diagnosed children with RB and 80 age-matched controls with ophthalmic conditions other than tumors prepared for intraocular surgeries. Concentrations of survivin, TGF-B1, and LDH were measured in serum and aqueous humor before and 6 months after completion of therapy.

RESULTS

High serum and aqueous humor concentrations of the three proteins were detected in RB patients before treatment compared to the control group (P < 0.01), with a significant reduction of serum concentrations after treatment (P < 0.01). For the highest sensitivity and specificity, the optimal cutoff values of serum and aqueous survivin were 12.9 pg/ml and 25.2 pg/mg, with a significant positive correlation between aqueous survivin and RB staging and presence of optic nerve infiltration (r = 0.43, P = 0.04); the best cutoff values of serum and aqueous TGF-B1, 370.7 pg/ml and 39.8 pg/mg, with a significant positive correlation between aqueous TGF-B1 and poor differentiation of the tumor (r = 0.69, P = 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of serum and aqueous humor survivin and TGF-B1 proteins make them promising markers for early detection and follow-up of RB patients.

Very low doses of ionizing radiation and redox associated modifiers affect survivin-associated changes in radiation sensitivity

Exposure of cells to a dose of ionizing radiation as low as 5mGy can induce changes in radiation sensitivity expressed by cells exposed to subsequent higher doses at later times. This is referred to as an adaptive effect. We describe a unique survivin-associated adaptive response in which increased radiation resistance or sensitization of cells can be induced by exposure to 5mGy or to the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generating drug Emodin (1,3,8-trihydroxy-6-methylanthraquinone), a naturally occurring anthraquinone. The purpose of this study was to determine the role of ROS generating processes in affecting both the intracellular localization of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein survivin and its subsequent effect on radiation response in the presence or absence of the anti-oxidant N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC). Experiments were performed using two well characterized murine sarcomas: SA-NH p53 wild-type (WT) and FSa p53 mutant (Mut), grown either in culture or as solid tumors in the right hind legs of C3H mice. Doses of 5mGy or 50μM Emodin were used to induce changes in the response of these tumor cells to higher radiation exposures using a multi-dosing paradigm. Effects on radiation sensitivity were determined for SA-NH and FSa cells as a function of survivin translocation either to the cytoplasm or nucleus in the presence or absence of 10mM NAC treatment. In vitro survival assays (2Gy per fraction, two once daily fractions) and tumor growth delay (TGD) (5Gy per fraction, five once daily fractions) studies were performed. Intracellular localization of survivin was determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and correlated to survival response and treatment conditions. 2Gy alone had no effect on intracellular translocation of survivin. When preceded 15min earlier by 5mGy or Emodin exposures, survivin became elevated in the cytoplasm of p53 WT SA-NH as compared to the nuclei of p53 Mut FSa cells. SA-NH cells transfected with p53 small interfering RNA (siRNA), in contrast, responded similarly to p53 Mut FSa cells by becoming more radiation sensitive if exposed to 5mGy prior to each 2Gy irradiation. In contrast to their respective responses to five once daily 5Gy fractions, SA-NH tumors were protected by 5mGy exposures administered 15min prior to each daily 5Gy dose as evidenced by a more rapid growth (1.9 day decrease in TGD, P=0.032), while FSa tumors were sensitized, growing at a much slower rate (4.5 day increase in TGD, P<0.001). Exposure of SA-NH and FSa tumor cells to 10mM NAC inhibited the ability of 5mGy and Emodin to induce intracellular translocation of survivin and the corresponding altered adaptive survival response. The survivin-associated adaptive response can be induced following a multi-dosing scheme in which very low radiation doses are followed shortly thereafter by higher doses consistent with a standard image guided radiotherapy protocol that is currently widely used in the treatment of cancer. While induced by exposure to ROS generating stresses, the ultimate expression of changes in radiation response is dependent upon the bi-functionality of the tumor associated protein survivin and its intracellular translocation.

Survivin, caspase-3 and MIB-1 expression in astrocytic tumors of various grades

PURPOSE

Gliomas are the most common primary brain tumors. The etiology is still unclear and the progression from low to high-grade gliomas is frequent. The molecular mechanisms are quite established, however the heterogeneity of glioblastomas force the scientist to look for the new therapeutic targets. The aim of the study was to evaluate the caspase-3 and survivin expression in correlation with MIB-1 expression in gliomas of various grade to assess the apoptosis in gliomas and to determinate new possible targets for the future therapy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We identified 131 patients with a histopathological diagnosis of astrocytic tumors (diffuse astrocytoma, anaplastic astrocytoma and glioblastoma). The evaluation of caspase-3, survivin and MIB-1 expression was done using immunohistochemical methods.

RESULTS

Caspase-3 and survivin expression was observed both in low- and high-grade astrocytomas. The differences in expression were the most evident in glioblastoma group. All primary glioblastomas (31 cases) expressed caspase-3. In secondary glioblastoma group only 17 out of 30 specimens were positive for caspase-3. Survivin expression was observed in 80.6% primary glioblastomas and in all examined secondary glioblastomas and the staining was strong and diffuse in all cases. MIB-1 expression was low in diffuse astrocytomas (DA) and ranged between 1 and 5%. In anaplastic astrocytoma group it was ranged between 5 and 10% and the highest percentage of the positive cells was observed in glioblastoma cases and ranged from 10% even to 30%. The most evident MIB-1 expression was observed in the cells surrounding the pathological blood vessels and necrosis.

CONCLUSIONS

The high incidence of survivin and caspase-3 expression in diffuse and anaplastic astrocytoma cases may suggest, that the regulation between pro- and antiapoptotic proteins may play an important role in tumor growth and progression. The overexpression of survivin and MIB-1 expression in glioblastoma cases also may confirm the theory about the important role of anti-apoptotic and proliferation processes in glioblastoma progression and as such may be potential therapeutic targets.

A review about the development of fucoidan in antitumor activity: Progress and challenges

Fucoidan is composed of l-fucose, sulfate groups and one or more small proportions of d-xylose, d-mannose, d-galactose, l-rhamnose, arabinose, glucose, d-glucuronic acid and acetyl groups in different kinds of brown seaweeds. Many reports have demonstrated that fucoidan has antitumor activities on various cancers. However, until now, few reviews have discussed the antitumor activity of fucoidan and few reports have summarized detailed molecular mechanisms of its actions and antitumor challenges of fucoidan specially. In this review, the antitumor signaling pathway mechanisms related to fucoidan are elucidated as much detail as possible. Besides, the factors affecting the anticancer effects of fucoidan, the structural characteristics of fucoidan with anticancer activities and the challenges for the further development of fucoidan are also summarized and evaluated. The existing similar and different conclusions are summarized in an attempt to provide guidelines to help further research, and finally contribute to go into market as chemotherapeumtics.

Survivin: a unique target for tumor therapy

Survivin is the smallest member of the Inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family of proteins, involved in inhibition of apoptosis and regulation of cell cycle. These functional attributes make Survivin a unique protein exhibiting divergent functions i.e. regulating cell proliferation and cell death. Expression pattern of Survivin is also distinctive; it is prominently expressed during embryonal development, absent in most normal, terminally differentiated tissues but upregulated in a variety of human cancers. Expression of Survivin in tumours correlates with not only inhibition of apoptosis and a decreased rate of cell death, but also resistance to chemotherapy and aggressiveness of tumours. Therefore, Survivin is an important target for cancer vaccines and therapeutics. Survivin has also been found to be prominently expressed on both human and embryonic stem cells and many somatic stem cell types indicating its yet unexplored role in stem cell generation and maintenance. Overall, Survivin emerges as a molecule with much wider role in cellular homeostasis. This review will discuss various aspects of Survivin biology and its role in regulation of apoptosis, cell division, chemo-resistance and tumour progression. Various molecular and immunotherapeutic approaches targeting Survivin will also be discussed.

Sequestering survivin to functionalized nanoparticles: a strategy to enhance apoptosis in cancer cells

Survivin belongs to the family of inhibitor of apoptosis proteins (IAP) and is present in most cancers while being below detection limits in most terminally differentiated adult tissues, making it an attractive protein to target for diagnostic and, potentially, therapeutic roles. Sub-100 nm poly(propargyl acrylate) (PA) particles were surface modified through the copper-catalyzed azide/alkyne cycloaddition of an azide-terminated survivin ligand derivative (azTM) originally proposed by Abbott Laboratories and speculated to bind directly to survivin (protein) at its dimer interface. Using affinity pull-down studies, it was determined that the PA/azTM nanoparticles selectively bind survivin and the particles can enhance apoptotic cell death in glioblastoma cell lines and other survivin over-expressing cell lines such as A549 and MCF7 relative to cells incubated with the original Abbott-derived small molecule inhibitor.

Flavokawain C Inhibits Cell Cycle and Promotes Apoptosis, Associated with Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress and Regulation of MAPKs and Akt Signaling Pathways in HCT 116 Human Colon Carcinoma Cells

Flavokawain C (FKC) is a naturally occurring chalcone which can be found in Kava (Piper methysticum Forst) root. The present study evaluated the effect of FKC on the growth of various human cancer cell lines and the underlying associated mechanisms. FKC showed higher cytotoxic activity against HCT 116 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner in comparison to other cell lines (MCF-7, HT-29, A549 and CaSki), with minimal toxicity on normal human colon cells. The apoptosis-inducing capability of FKC on HCT 116 cells was evidenced by cell shrinkage, chromatin condensation, DNA fragmentation and increased phosphatidylserine externalization. FKC was found to disrupt mitochondrial membrane potential, resulting in the release of Smac/DIABLO, AIF and cytochrome c into the cytoplasm. Our results also revealed that FKC induced intrinsic and extrinsic apoptosis via upregulation of the levels of pro-apoptotic proteins (Bak) and death receptors (DR5), while downregulation of the levels of anti-apoptotic proteins (XIAP, cIAP-1, c-Flip_L, Bcl-xL and survivin), resulting in the activation of caspase-3, -8 and -9 and cleavage of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP). FKC was also found to cause endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress, as suggested by the elevation of GADD153 protein after FKC treatment. After the cells were exposed to FKC (60μM) over 18hrs, there was a substantial increase in the phosphorylation of ERK 1/2. The expression of phosphorylated Akt was also reduced. FKC also caused cell cycle arrest in the S phase in HCT 116 cells in a time- and dose-dependent manner and with accumulation of cells in the sub-G1 phase. This was accompanied by the downregulation of cyclin-dependent kinases (CDK2 and CDK4), consistent with the upregulation of CDK inhibitors (p21^Cip1 and p27^Kip1), and hypophosphorylation of Rb.

Mitochondria can orchestrate sex differences in cell fate of vascular smooth muscle cells from rats

Background

In basal conditions, vascular smooth muscle cells freshly isolated from aortas of male and female rats display marked sex differences in terms of redox balance and susceptibility to ultraviolet radiation-induced cell death. In particular, in the same experimental conditions, cells from male rats are more susceptible to oxidative stress and underwent apoptosis, while cells from female rats underwent premature senescence. In the present work, the mechanism involved in cell fate after ultraviolet radiation exposure is investigated.

Methods

Vascular smooth muscle cells, isolated from the descending aortas of both female and male Sprague–Dawley young rats, were exposed to a single sub-cytotoxic dose of ultraviolet radiation (200 mJ/cm²). The distribution and the expression of molecules involved in cell survival and mitochondrial physiology were evaluated by static and flow cytometry using commercial kits and antibodies. Statistical analyses were performed by using Student’s t test and two-way ANOVA.

Results

After exposure to ultraviolet radiation, an upregulation of survival proteins such as Bclx_L, survivin and the presence in the nucleus of NF-κB were found in cells from females. Conversely, pro-apoptotic proteins such as Bax, caspase-3, and caspase-9 as well as loss of mitochondrial membrane potential were found in cells from male rats.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that (i) mitochondria, being producers of ROS, can orchestrate sex differences in cell fate of VSMC and (ii) mitochondrial dysfunction may be a significant mechanism by which cardiovascular risk factors lead to the formation of vascular lesions in a sex-specific way.

Prognostic Significance of Survivin Expression in Osteosarcoma Patients: A Meta-Analysis

Background

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone malignancy and has poor prognosis. Survivin has been identified as an independent prognostic factor for a majority of cancers. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of survivin expression on the clinical outcome of osteosarcoma patients.

Material/Methods

Online electronic databases were searched for related articles published between 2000 and 2015. Odds ratio (OR) and risk ratio (RR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CI) were employed to calculate the significance.

Results

Overall, a total of 20 relevant studies were selected, including 1030 patients. No significant heterogeneity was observed among included studies (P>0.01, I²<50%). Survivin was expressed in 68.6% of all cases. Our results show that survivin expression increased the 5-year overall survival (RR=0.48, 95% CI=0.32–0.71, P=0.0002) and rate of postoperative recurrence (RR=1.80, 95% CI=1.09–2.97, P=0.02). It was associated with the grade of osteosarcoma (Enneking clinical stage, IIb–III vs. I–IIa: OR=5.26, 95% CI=3.76–7.34, P<0.00001; Price’s grade, III vs. I+II: OR=2.04, 95% CI=1.16–3.61, P=0.01), metastasis, and soft tissue invasion of osteosarcoma (OR=6.25, 95% CI=3.74–10.45, P<0.00001; OR=6.15, 95% CI=3.74–10.11, P<0.00001). No relationship was found between survivin expression and sex, age, or tumor size in patients with osteosarcoma.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that survivin can function as a new diagnostic biomarker for osteosarcoma and be used as a reference index to determine pathology classification of osteosarcoma, providing new targets for gene therapy of osteosarcoma.

Novel therapy for locally advanced triple-negative breast cancer

To evaluate a novel therapy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the biological responses to vitamin K3 (VK3) should be considered with the understanding of the features of breast cancer. In human breast cancer cell lines, the effects of VK3 on cell growth inhibition and the cellular signaling pathway were determined by MTT assay and western blotting. In the in vivo study, a subcutaneous tumor model of breast cancer was created, VK3 was injected into the subcutaneous tumors, and tumor size was measured. The IC₅₀ of VK3 for breast cancer cells was calculated to be 11.3–25.1 μM. VK3 induced phosphorylation of whole tyrosine and epidermal growth factor receptor. VK3 mediated phosphorylation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) and c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) for 30 min. ERK but not JNK phosphorylation was maintained for at least 6 h. In contrast, another antioxidant agent, catalase, showed no effect on either ERK phosphorylation or growth inhibition. On built-up tumors under the skin of mice, local treatment with VK3 was effective in a time- and dose-dependent manner, and the experiments for total tumor volume also showed a dose-dependent effect of VK3. The expression of phosphorylated ERK was clearly detected at 10.9 times the control in tumor tissue, whereas ethanol itself showed no effect. In conclusion, ERK plays a critical role in VK3-induced growth inhibition, and it will be the focus of next steps in the development of molecular therapy for TNBC.

Effect of lentivirus-mediated survivin transfection on the morphology and apoptosis of nucleus pulposus cells derived from degenerative human disc in vitro

Lower back pain is a common concern, and 40% of all cases involve the degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD). However, the excessive apoptosis of disc cells plays an important role in IVD degeneration, particularly in the nucleus pulposus (NP). Thus, anti-apoptotic gene therapy to attenuate or reverse the degenerative process within the NP is being developed. Survivin is a unique inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) and has been extensively investigated in cancer cells. However, little is known of the effects of survivin transfection on NP cells derived from degenerative human disc. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of lentivirus (LV)-mediated survivin transfection on the morphology and apoptosis of NP cells derived from degenerative human disc in vitro. NP cells were transfected with LV-mediated survivin. Subsequently, cell morphology was observed and the survivin mRNA expression levels were measured by RT-qPCR. Apoptosis was analyzed by flow cytometry and by measuring caspase-3 activity. The results revealed that the morphology of the NP cells derived from degenerative human disc transfected with LV-mediated survivin was significantly altered as evidenced by cytomorphosis, the reduction of the cytoplasm and cell shrinkage. Following transfection, survivin gene expression significantly increased in the transfected cells and subsequent generation cells; however, no significant differences in the cell apoptotic rate and caspase-3 activity were observed. We found that transfection of the survivin gene into NP cells led to the stable expression of survivin and induced marked changes in cell morphology. Furthermore, no significant anti-apoptotic effects were observed following LV-mediated survivin transfection. Overall, our findings demonstrate that LV carrying surviving may be used to successfully enforce the expression of survivin in NP cells. However, cell morphology was evidently altered, whereas the apoptotic rate did not decrease. Comprehensive studies on the feasibility of using survivin in gene therapy in an aim to attenuate disc degeneration are warranted. Further research on the mechanisms responsible for the changes in cell morphology and cell function are also required.