Article ID Journal Published Year Pages File Type
2112993 Cancer Letters 2013 8 Pages PDF
Abstract

The present study provides novel insight into the mechanism of apoptosis induction by withaferin A (WA), which is a bioactive constituent of an Ayurvedic medicine plant (Withania somnifera). Exposure of MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 human breast cancer cells to WA resulted in suppression of XIAP, cIAP-2, and Survivin protein levels. The WA-induced apoptosis was significantly attenuated by ectopic expression of XIAP, Survivin, and cIAP-2 in both cells. However, the WA-mediated inhibition of MDA-MB-231 xenograft growth in vivo was associated with suppression of Survivin protein level only. These results indicate important contribution of Survivin suppression in WA-induced apoptosis.

► Withaferin A downregulates IAP family proteins in breast cancer cells. ► Overexpression of XIAP, cIAP-2 and Survivin confers protection against withaferin A-induced apoptosis. ► Withaferin A administration suppresses Survivin protein level in vivo.. ► Survivin may be a valid biomarker of withaferin A exposure and possibly response at least in breast cancer cells.

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Life Sciences Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology Cancer Research
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