Effects of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein Livin in tumors and research progresses of the application of Livin to the diagnosis and treatment of tumors

Abnormal apoptosis is one of causes leading to the transformation of normal cells towards cancer cells. Inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (IAPs), a group of endogenous cytokines which inhibit apoptosis, play a vital role in the occurrence and development of cancer. Livin is a new member of IAPs family and significantly promotes the growth, metastasis, and invasion of tumors. It is also a key factor for regulating the sensitivity of tumors towards chemotherapeutic agents. Therefor Livin can serve as an important molecular marker and a potential therapeutic target for tumors. This paper reviews research progresses of the expression and acting mechanisms of Livin in tumors in digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems and application of Livin to the diagnosis and treatment of tumors.