Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 5 mRNA (BIRC5 mRNA)

Baculoviral IAP repeat-containing protein 5 (BIRC5) mRNA, commonly referred to as survivin mRNA, is the transcript encoding the survivin protein, a pivotal regulator of both apoptosis and cell division. As a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family, survivin is unique for its dual role in inhibiting caspase activity and ensuring proper chromosome segregation during mitosis. BIRC5 mRNA is highly expressed in embryonic tissues and the vast majority of human cancers, while remaining nearly undetectable in normal adult tissues, which establishes it as a highly specific oncology target. Therapeutic approaches targeting this mRNA include antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) that induce its degradation or block its translation, thereby reducing survivin protein levels and sensitizing malignant cells to programmed cell death. Despite its strong rationale as a target, clinical trials of BIRC5 mRNA-targeting agents have encountered hurdles such as delivery difficulties and limited efficacy as monotherapies, leading to a focus on their use in combination with other chemotherapeutic or radiotherapeutic regimens.

Other names

Survivin mRNABIRC5 mRNAAPI4 mRNAEPR-1 mRNABaculoviral IAP repeat-containing 5 mRNA

Antisense inhibition and RNA interference leading to mRNA degradation and translational repression