A radiosensitizing effect of artesunate in glioblastoma cells is associated with a diminished expression of the inhibitor of apoptosis protein survivin.

Abstract Background and purpose Novel strategies to overcome an irradiation resistant phenotype may help to increase therapeutic efficacy in glioblastoma multiforme. The present study aimed to elucidate radiation sensitizing properties of artesunate, a semi synthetic derivate of artemisinin and to assess factors involved in this effect. Materials and methods LN229 and U87MG cells were treated with various concentrations of artesunate and radiation response was determined by a colony forming assay. Cell numbers, apoptosis induction, cell cycle distribution, and DNA repair following combined modality treatment were monitored by MTT-, caspase 3/7 assay, cytofluorometry, and γ-H2AX foci formati…