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Author Spotlight: Advancements in Molecular Biomarker Testing for Non-Squamous Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Published on: September 8, 2023
Long non-coding RNAs in non-small cell lung cancer: implications for EGFR-TKI resistance
Detian Liu1, Xiaolin Lu2, Wentao Huang1
1Department of Thoracic Surgery, Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China.
Abstract:
Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is one of the most common types of malignant tumors as well as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the world. The application of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has dramatically improved the prognosis of NSCLC patients who harbor EGFR mutations. However, despite an excellent initial response, NSCLC inevitably becomes resistant to EGFR-TKIs, leading to irreversible disease progression. Hence, it is of great significance to shed light on the molecular mechanisms underlying the EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are critical gene modulators that are able to act as oncogenes or tumor suppressors that modulate tumorigenesis, invasion, and metastasis. Recently, extensive evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs also have a significant function in modulating EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC. In this review, we present a comprehensive summary of the lncRNAs involved in EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC and focus on their detailed mechanisms of action, including activation of alternative bypass signaling pathways, phenotypic transformation, intercellular communication in the tumor microenvironment, competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs) networks, and epigenetic modifications. In addition, we briefly discuss the limitations and the clinical implications of current lncRNAs research in this field.
Insights
Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are key players in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) developing resistance to epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs). Understanding lncRNA mechanisms is crucial for overcoming treatment resistance in NSCLC patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a leading cause of cancer mortality worldwide.
- Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have improved outcomes for EGFR-mutated NSCLC.
- Acquired resistance to EGFR-TKIs remains a significant clinical challenge, leading to disease progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the critical role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in mediating EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC.
- To elucidate the diverse molecular mechanisms by which lncRNAs contribute to treatment resistance.
- To discuss the clinical implications and future directions of lncRNA research in overcoming NSCLC resistance.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating lncRNAs and EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC.
- Analysis of identified lncRNAs' functions and mechanisms of action.
- Synthesis of information on signaling pathways, cellular processes, and epigenetic modifications involved.
Main Results:
- lncRNAs modulate EGFR-TKI resistance through various mechanisms, including activation of bypass signaling pathways.
- Phenotypic transformation, intercellular communication within the tumor microenvironment, and ceRNA networks are influenced by lncRNAs.
- Epigenetic modifications mediated by lncRNAs also contribute significantly to resistance development.
Conclusions:
- lncRNAs are pivotal regulators of EGFR-TKI resistance in NSCLC, offering potential therapeutic targets.
- Understanding lncRNA-driven resistance mechanisms is essential for developing novel treatment strategies.
- Further research into lncRNAs holds promise for improving clinical outcomes for NSCLC patients.
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