Modulating multidrug resistance to drug-based antitumor therapies through NF-κB signaling pathway: mechanisms and...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Multidrug resistance (MDR) remains a significant challenge in cancer therapy, limiting treatment efficacy.
• Activation of the nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway is implicated in various cancer hallmarks, including chemoresistance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the critical role of the NF-κB signaling pathway in the development of multidrug resistance across diverse cancer treatment modalities.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting NF-κB for overcoming drug resistance in cancer.

Main Methods:

• An integrated analysis of existing evidence was conducted.
• A literature search was performed using PubMed, focusing on NF-κB and drug resistance up to February 2023.

Main Results:

• The NF-κB signaling pathway is a key enhancer of drug resistance in chemotherapy, immunotherapy, endocrine therapy, and targeted therapy.
• Evidence suggests NF-κB activation contributes to cancer cell survival and treatment failure.

Conclusions:

• The NF-κB pathway plays a pivotal role in mediating multidrug resistance in various cancer treatments.
• Combination therapy involving conventional antineoplastic drugs and safe NF-κB inhibitors presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
• Further understanding of NF-κB mechanisms is essential for developing novel, effective NF-κB-targeting agents for clinical application.