Overcoming chemoresistance and radio resistance in prostate cancer: The emergent role of non-coding RNAs

Pathol Res Pract. 2024 Mar:255:155179. doi: 10.1016/j.prp.2024.155179. Epub 2024 Feb 1.

Abstract

Prostate cancer (PCa) continues to be a major health concern worldwide, with its resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy presenting major hurdles in successful treatment. While patients with localized prostate cancer generally have a good survival rate, those with metastatic prostate cancer often face a grim prognosis, even with aggressive treatments using various methods. The high mortality rate in severe cases is largely due to the lack of treatment options that can offer lasting results, especially considering the significant genetic diversity found in tumors at the genomic level. This comprehensive review examines the intricate molecular mechanisms governing resistance in PCa, emphasising the pivotal contributions of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). We delve into the diverse roles of microRNAs, long ncRNAs, and other non-coding elements as critical regulators of key cellular processes involved in CR & RR. The review emphasizes the diagnostic potential of ncRNAs as predictive biomarkers for treatment response, offering insights into patient stratification and personalized therapeutic approaches. Additionally, we explore the therapeutic implications of targeting ncRNAs to overcome CR & RR, highlighting innovative strategies to restore treatment sensitivity. By synthesizing current knowledge, this review not only provides a comprehension of the chemical basis of resistance in PCa but also identifies gaps in knowledge, paving the way for future research directions. Ultimately, this exploration of ncRNA perspectives offers a roadmap for advancing precision medicine in PCa, potentially transforming therapeutic paradigms and improving outcomes for patients facing the challenges of treatment resistance.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Epigenetics; Non-coding RNAs; Prostate Cancer; Radiation therapy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm / genetics
  • Humans
  • Male
  • MicroRNAs* / genetics
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / diagnosis
  • Prostatic Neoplasms* / genetics
  • RNA, Long Noncoding* / genetics
  • RNA, Untranslated / genetics

Substances

  • RNA, Untranslated
  • MicroRNAs
  • RNA, Long Noncoding