Survivin

Survivin is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein (IAP) family, playing a crucial role in inhibiting cell death and regulating cell division. This small protein is highly expressed in most human tumors and is associated with resistance to chemotherapy and poor prognosis. Survivin functions by blocking caspase activation, thereby preventing apoptosis. It is also involved in the control of cell cycle progression and can promote cancer cell proliferation. Due to its selective expression in cancer cells and minimal presence in normal adult tissues, survivin is an attractive target for cancer therapy. Targeting survivin could potentially disable cancer cells' survival mechanisms, making them more susceptible to apoptosis and less resistant to conventional treatments.