Genetic silencing of CDC6 via AAV2-Delivered shRNA as a novel cancer genetics-based therapy for cervical carcinoma.

Abstract

Background: Cell division cycle 6 (Cdc6) is an oncogenic driver in cervical cancer, whose dysregulation accelerates S-phase entry and promotes genomic instability. As a key replication licensing factor, its overexpression creates a cancer-specific vulnerability, making it a promising therapeutic target.

Objective: To evaluate whether silencing Cdc6 via an adeno-associated virus serotype 2 (AAV2)-delivered shRNA can selectively inhibit cervical cancer growth while sparing normal cells.

Methods: We constructed an AAV2 vector encoding short hairpin RNA (shRNA) targeting Cdc6 and validated its efficacy in vitro using multiple cervical cancer cell lines and an immortalized epithelial cell line (HaCaT). Functional assays assessed cell cycle progression, apoptosis, and DNA damage. Antitumor efficacy was further assessed in xenograft mouse models.

Results: AAV2-shCdc6 transduction efficiently silenced Cdc6 expression, leading to G2/M phase arrest, increased γ-H2AX expression, and significant apoptosis in cervical cancer cells. In contrast, normal HaCaT cells exhibited only S-phase arrest without apoptosis. In vivo, AAV2-shCdc6 treatment significantly inhibited tumor growth in xenograft models without observable systemic toxicity.

Conclusion: AAV2-mediated Cdc6 knockdown selectively targets cervical cancer by exploiting a defined genetic vulnerability. This cancer genetics-based strategy offers a precise and well-tolerated approach for cervical cancer therapy.