Hsa_circ_0038737 promotes PARPi resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer via IGF2BP3-mediated DNPH1 mRNA

Zhongyuan Wang1,2,3, Qintao Ge1,2,3, Aihetaimujiang Anwaier1,2,3

  • 1Department of Urology, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, P.R. China.

Molecular Cancer
|October 2, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) drive poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitor (PARPi) resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The hsa_circ_0038737/IGF2BP3/DNPH1 pathway enhances DNA repair, promoting resistance, but DNPH1 inhibition restores PARPi sensitivity.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) efficacy is limited by resistance in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).
  • Circular RNAs (circRNAs) role in PARPi resistance in CRPC is largely unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the molecular mechanism of hsa_circ_0038737 in mediating PARPi resistance in CRPC.
  • To explore the post-transcriptional regulatory pathways involved in this process.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized qRT-PCR, RNA sequencing, RNA-protein pull-down, and RNA immunoprecipitation.
  • Conducted functional assays, xenograft, and organoid models in vitro and in vivo.
  • Investigated the biological function and mechanistic role of hsa_circ_0038737 in CRPC.

Main Results:

  • Identified nuclear-enriched hsa_circ_0038737 upregulated in CRPC, correlating with poor prognosis.
  • Discovered hsa_circ_0038737 interacts with IGF2BP3 to stabilize DNPH1 mRNA, enhancing DNA repair and PARPi resistance.
  • Demonstrated that DNPH1 inhibition restores PARPi sensitivity in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusions:

  • A novel hsa_circ_0038737/IGF2BP3/DNPH1 axis drives PARPi resistance in CRPC.
  • This axis represents potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for overcoming PARPi resistance in advanced prostate cancer.

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