A Therapeutic Role for Survivin in Mitigating the Harmful Effects of Ionizing Radiation

    January 2016 in “ Sarcoma ”
    Katherine H. Carruthers, Gregory A. Metzger, Eun Young Choi, Matthew J. During, Ergun Kocak
    TLDR Inducing survivin in normal tissues can protect against radiation damage.
    The study explored the therapeutic role of survivin in reducing the harmful effects of ionizing radiation, using a murine model. Mice treated with survivin exhibited only hair loss, while control mice experienced significant skin ulceration and impaired wound healing. Histological analysis showed less dermal thickening and collagen increase in survivin-treated mice, and gait analysis indicated better physical performance post-radiation. The findings suggested that gene-modification to induce survivin expression could protect normal tissues from radiation damage, potentially improving treatment outcomes for cancer patients. Further studies were needed to confirm these results in larger animal models and ensure safety.
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