The inhibition study of STAT3 siRNA on glioblastoma stem cells

Abstract

Objective To construct STAT3 siRNA to interfere the expression STAT3,and to observe the effect on glioblastoma stem cells. Method The adenovirus shRNA expression vector targeting STAT3 gene was constructed and transduced into glioblastoma stem cells. The gene silencing efficiency was monitored by RT - PCR and Western blot analysis. The proliferation and apoptosis of glioblastoma stem cells were detected by MTT assays and flow cytometry. In addition, the effect of tumor bearing mice was also observed. Results After the adenovirus STAT3 siRNA transfection, the level of mRNA decreased to (41.5 ±7.3)％, the level of protein decreased to( 31.2 ± 6. 4)％, the cell proliferation was inhibited, the cell apoptosis ratio increased to (23. 8 ± 6. 1 ) ％. Additionly, the adenovirus STAT3 siRNA could inhibit the tumor growth and improve the lifespan of mice. Conclusions The adenovirus shRNA targeting STAT3 gene could significantly inhibit the expression and activation of STAT3, and suppress the proliferation of glioblastoma stem cells, which provide an ideal therapeutic strategy for treatment of glioblastoma stem cells. Key words: RNA interference;  STAT3 transcription factor;  Glioma;  Neoplastic stem cells