Survivin, a new member of inhibitors of apoptosis proteins(IAP) family, regulates the essential cellular processes, including inhibition of cell apoptosis, promotion of cell proliferation and tumor stromal angiogenesis. Survivin is undetectable in most terminally differentiated tissues, but upregulated in almost all types of human malignancies and its aberrant overexpression positively correlates with chemotherapy resistance, increased tumor recurrence and shortened patient survival. Because of its key role in tumor formation and development, Survivin is considered as an ideal target for anticancer treatment. This review discussed the molecular function of Survivin, relationship between Survivin and cancer biological characteristics, as well as the research progress of cancer therapy targeting Survivin.