PDCD6 additively cooperates with anti-cancer drugs through activation of NF-κB pathways

► PDCD6 and cisplatin combination was more effective at suppressing cell growth. ► PDCD6 suppressed the phosphorylation of PI3K, including PDK1 and Akt. ► PDCD6 promotes TNFa-dependent apoptosis via the activation of NF-kB pathways. ► p21 and p53 activities were enhanced, whereas p53−/− and p21−/− did not affect. ► PDCD6 can mediate the pro-apoptotic activity of cisplatin or TNFa through NF-κB.