IAPs: Mediators of Oncogenesis and Targets for Anticancer Therapy

The inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family members are potent regulators of cell homeostasis able to regulate several fundamental cellular processes that include cell death, cell proliferation, cell differentiation, and inflammation. Regarding this broad spectrum of activity, it is now becoming clear that some members of the family possess oncogenic properties. Analysis of genomic database from tumor sequencing studies has revealed a number of genetic alterations affecting some IAP genes and resulting in gain or loss of function. In this review, we discuss the importance of IAP alterations in cell transformation and their link with key oncogenic pathways, focusing on nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-kappa B)-activating signaling pathways. Then we highlight the therapeutic potential of IAP antagonists and nitric oxide (NO) donors as inhibitors of NF-kappa B in anticancer therapy.