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PTEN-mediated resistance in cancer: From foundation to future therapies

Muhammad Tufail1

  • 1Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Center of Stomatology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China.

Toxicology Reports
|March 25, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted (PTEN) plays a key role in cancer drug resistance by regulating cell pathways. Restoring PTEN function and combination therapies show promise for overcoming treatment resistance.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Cancer Research

Background:

  • Phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted (PTEN) is crucial in regulating cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation.
  • PTEN alterations (mutations, deletions, epigenetic silencing) contribute to cancer growth and treatment evasion.
  • PTEN interacts with key signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT, MAPK/ERK, and Wnt/β-catenin, influencing cancer progression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To comprehensively review PTEN-mediated drug resistance mechanisms in cancer.
  • To elucidate the intricate interplay between PTEN and signaling pathways in resistance.
  • To explore therapeutic strategies for restoring PTEN function and overcoming resistance.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of PTEN's role in cancer drug resistance.
  • Analysis of PTEN alterations and their impact on cancer.
  • Investigation of PTEN's interactions with major signaling pathways.
  • Exploration of therapeutic approaches including genetic, pharmacological, and combination therapies.

Main Results:

  • PTEN alterations are implicated in fueling cancer growth and evading treatment.
  • Interactions between PTEN and signaling pathways (PI3K/AKT, MAPK/ERK, Wnt/β-catenin) contribute to resistance.
  • Restoring PTEN function and combination therapies offer potential to overcome resistance.

Conclusions:

  • PTEN is central to drug resistance mechanisms in various cancers.
  • Targeting PTEN and utilizing combination therapies are promising strategies for future cancer treatment.
  • Understanding PTEN's complex role is vital for developing effective cancer therapies.
Keywords:
CancerDrug resistancePTENSignaling pathwaysTherapeutic approaches

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