Evaluation of the Gene Expression of the Cytoprotective Proteins in Response to Daunorubicin in U937 Cells

Background: Daunorubicin (DNR) is capable of killing the human acute myeloid leukemia cells through apoptosis or necrosis with arresting cell cycle and various mechanisms. The response of AML cells to DNR associated with defect and or defiance in survival has been a consideration subject. Objectives: We have represented the transcription gene profile of some critical prosurvival proteins by qRT - PCR, including osteopontin (OPN), AKT1, mTOR, β - catenin, and NF - kB/RelB. Methods: The U937 cells were treated with DNR with clinically achievable concentrations for MTT assay, annexin V (AV) /Propidium iodide (PI), and cell cycle analysis. QRT - PCR was performed, using primers of OPN, NF - kB/RelB, AKT1, mTOR, PTEN, and β - catenin. Results: The AV/PI assay displayed that DNR - induced death in cells was a dose - dependent and necrotic manner. Cell cycle distribution following treatment with DNR exhibited a relatively lower chromatin of S phase than untreated cells. OPN gene expression was significantly attenuated. NF - kB/RelB, mTOR, β - catenin, as well as PTENgenes showed unchanged or non - significant increase in expression. However, AKT1increased significantly. Conclusions: U937 sensitivity to DNR could be due to the targeting of anti-apoptotic proteins in the transcriptional stages. The decrease in OPNlevels appears to play a significant role in the death of the observed by DNR.