'Nelfinavir sensitizes a clinically relevant chemo-radioresistant cervical cancer <i>in-vitro</i> model by targeting the AKT-USP15/USP11-HPV16 E6/E7 axis.

ABSTRACT: Resistance to standard therapies is a major challenge in managing cervical cancer, often leading to systemic relapse. This study aimed to develop an in-vitro model of chemo-radioresistant cervical cancer that mimics clinical conditions and also explore the therapeutic potential of the repurposed drug nelfinavir, an HIV protease inhibitor. HPV16-positive SiHa cervical cancer cells were subjected to concurrent cisplatin and ionizing radiation, to simulate the clinical treatment regimen for locally advanced cervical cancer. The resulting chemo-radioresistant subline exhibited increased IC₅₀-value, D0 dose, and a higher Resistance Index compared to parent cells, indicating resistance development. Notably, elevated HPV16 E6/E7 expression in resistant sublines suggested a role

SUBMITTER: Reddy R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12002845 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature