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Updated: Sep 11, 2025

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cancer Drug Sensitization In Vitro and In Vivo
Published on: February 6, 2015
Targeting DNA damage response pathways in tumor drug resistance: Mechanisms, clinical implications, and future
Hengzhou Zhu1, Yuanyang Tian2, Haoyan Chen3
1Department of Oncology, Wuxi Affiliated Hospital of Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, Wuxi, China; School of Chinese Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, NT, Hong Kong, China.
Abstract:
Targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways has become a promising strategy for overcoming tumor drug resistance, particularly in cancers with DNA repair defects. DDR pathways, including homologous recombination (HR), non-homologous end joining (NHEJ), base excision repair (BER), and mismatch repair (MMR), are essential for maintaining genomic stability. However, resistance to DDR-targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors, often arises due to tumor adaptation through various mechanisms. These include HR pathway restoration, mutations in DDR proteins, altered drug metabolism, and the activation of compensatory repair pathways. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the molecular mechanisms underlying DDR resistance in tumors and explores the clinical implications of these mechanisms in the context of ongoing therapeutic strategies. We also discuss emerging approaches to overcome DDR resistance, including the development of novel DDR inhibitors, combination therapies, and precision medicine approaches based on biomarkers. Furthermore, we highlight future research directions, focusing on the use of advanced technologies, such as CRISPR screening, single-cell sequencing, and artificial intelligence, to uncover new targets and therapeutic strategies to combat DDR-related drug resistance.
Insights
Targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways offers cancer treatment promise, but tumors develop resistance. Understanding these resistance mechanisms is key to developing new therapies for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Targeting DNA damage response (DDR) pathways is a key strategy against cancers with repair defects.
- Tumor resistance to DDR-targeted therapies, like PARP inhibitors, is a significant clinical challenge.
- Mechanisms of resistance include pathway restoration, protein mutations, and altered drug metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively review the molecular mechanisms of DDR resistance in tumors.
- To explore the clinical implications of DDR resistance mechanisms.
- To discuss emerging strategies for overcoming DDR resistance.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing research on DDR pathways and resistance.
- Synthesis of information on molecular mechanisms, clinical implications, and therapeutic strategies.
- Identification of future research directions and technological advancements.
Main Results:
- Detailed analysis of various resistance mechanisms, including HR restoration and compensatory pathways.
- Exploration of clinical relevance of these mechanisms in current treatment paradigms.
- Identification of novel therapeutic approaches, including combination therapies and biomarker-driven precision medicine.
Conclusions:
- Understanding DDR resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving cancer therapy efficacy.
- Novel DDR inhibitors, combination therapies, and precision medicine hold promise for overcoming resistance.
- Advanced technologies like CRISPR screening and AI are vital for future discoveries in DDR resistance.
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