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Systems Biology of Metabolic Regulation by Estrogen Receptor Signaling in Breast Cancer
Published on: March 17, 2016
Long Non-Coding RNAs as New Master Regulators of Resistance to Systemic Treatments in Breast Cancer
Alma D Campos-Parra1, Eduardo López-Urrutia2, Luz Tonantzin Orozco Moreno3
1Laboratorio de Genómica, Instituto Nacional de Cancerología (INCan), Av. San Fernando 22, Col. Sección XVI, Tlalpan, C.P. 14080 Ciudad de México, Mexico. adcamposparra@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Predicting response to systemic treatments in breast cancer (BC) patients is an urgent, yet still unattained health aim. Easily detectable molecules such as long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are the ideal biomarkers when they act as master regulators of many resistance mechanisms, or of mechanisms that are common to more than one treatment. These kinds of markers are pivotal in quasi-personalized treatment selection, and consequently, in improvement of outcome prediction. In order to provide a better approach to understanding development of disease and resistance to treatments, we reviewed current literature searching for lncRNA-associated systemic BC treatments including endocrine therapies, aromatase inhibitors, selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs), trastuzumab, paclitaxel, docetaxel, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), anthracyclines, and cisplatin. We found that the engagement of lncRNAs in resistance is well described, and that lncRNAs such as urotelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1) and regulator of reprogramming (ROR) are indeed involved in multiple resistance mechanisms, which offers tantalizing perspectives for wide usage of lncRNAs as treatment resistance biomarkers. Thus, we propose this work as the foundation for a wide landscape of functions and mechanisms that link more lncRNAs to resistance to current and new treatments in years of research to come.
Insights
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) show promise as biomarkers for predicting breast cancer treatment resistance. Specific lncRNAs like UCA1 and ROR are involved in multiple resistance mechanisms, aiding personalized treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Predicting patient response to systemic breast cancer treatments remains a significant clinical challenge.
- Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are increasingly recognized for their regulatory roles in cellular processes, including drug resistance.
- Identifying reliable biomarkers is crucial for advancing personalized medicine in breast cancer care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and synthesize current literature on the role of lncRNAs in mediating resistance to various systemic breast cancer treatments.
- To explore the potential of lncRNAs as predictive biomarkers for treatment response and outcome in breast cancer.
- To lay the groundwork for future research investigating lncRNA functions in treatment resistance.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive literature review was conducted.
- Searched for studies investigating lncRNAs associated with systemic breast cancer therapies.
- Included treatments such as endocrine therapies, aromatase inhibitors, SERMs, trastuzumab, taxanes, 5-FU, anthracyclines, and cisplatin.
Main Results:
- lncRNAs are extensively involved in the development of resistance to multiple breast cancer treatments.
- Specific lncRNAs, including Urothelial Carcinoma-Associated 1 (UCA1) and Regulator of Reprogramming (ROR), are implicated in diverse resistance mechanisms.
- These findings highlight the potential of lncRNAs as versatile biomarkers for predicting treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- lncRNAs play a critical role in mediating resistance across a spectrum of breast cancer systemic treatments.
- lncRNAs like UCA1 and ROR demonstrate potential as broad-spectrum biomarkers for predicting treatment resistance.
- This review provides a foundation for future research into lncRNA-mediated resistance mechanisms and their clinical application in breast cancer therapy.
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