About this Research Topic
The ongoing battle against gastrointestinal cancers is significantly challenged by drug resistance, which diminishes the efficacy of both current and developing therapies. This complex and dynamic barrier is a central concern in oncological research and treatment design. Drug resistance mechanisms are multifaceted and can involve genetic alterations, such as mutations in drug target proteins or the activation of alternative signaling pathways that bypass the drug's target, as well as epigenetic changes that affect gene expression. Additionally, emerging factors such as the gut microbiome, tumor microenvironment, and metabolic disorders influence drug resistance in GI cancers. This research collection explores the intricate mechanisms underlying drug resistance in gastrointestinal oncology, focusing on genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications, and the critical role of the tumor microenvironment. By delving into these aspects, we aim to uncover sophisticated survival strategies to improve outcomes for patients suffering from these malignancies.
This research topic aims to bridge the gap between understanding the fundamental mechanisms of drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers and applying this knowledge to develop more effective, precise, and durable cancer therapies. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this collection investigates the latest advancements in genomics, epigenomics, and systems biology to untangle the complexity of drug resistance specific to gastrointestinal tumors. It seeks to create a platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and innovative methodologies, inspiring novel strategies to anticipate and counteract resistance mechanisms. By integrating insights from various scientific disciplines, we strive to enhance the quality of life and survival rates for patients, ushering in a new era of cancer therapy characterized by targeted, personalized, and adaptable treatments that can keep pace with the evolving landscape of tumor resistance.
• Molecular Underpinnings of Resistance: Investigations into genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications that confer resistance to therapies. This includes exploring specific genes, regulatory RNAs, and chromatin remodeling processes.
• Role of the Tumor Microenvironment: Examination of how components such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and the extracellular matrix contribute to drug resistance, including the impact of hypoxia and nutrient availability.
• Cellular Drug Efflux and Metabolism: Insights into mechanisms by which cancer cells reduce intracellular drug concentrations, focusing on efflux transporters and drug metabolism alterations.
• Signaling Pathways and Cell Survival: Analysis of key pathways involved in cell proliferation, survival, and apoptosis, and their role in mediating resistance, including PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways.
• Tumor Heterogeneity and Clonal Evolution: Exploration of tumor heterogeneity and how selective therapeutic pressure drives the emergence of resistant clones, emphasizing spatial and temporal tumor evolution.
• Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine: Utilization of pharmacogenomic data to predict drug response and resistance, advocating for tailored therapeutic strategies based on individual genetic profiles.
• Overcoming Drug Resistance: Strategies to circumvent resistance, including combination therapies, drug repositioning, and novel agents targeting resistance mechanisms. This section also highlights integrating immunotherapy with conventional treatments.
• Computational Models and Bioinformatics: Application of computational tools, bioinformatics, and systems biology approaches to dissect drug resistance complexity, including developing predictive models based on multi-omics data.
• Emerging Technologies and Future Directions: Exploration of cutting-edge methodologies like single-cell sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, and advanced imaging techniques to unravel mechanisms of drug resistance.
• We seek various manuscript types, including original research, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspective pieces, offering significant insights into drug resistance and proposing innovative solutions for gastrointestinal oncology.
This research topic aims to bridge the gap between understanding the fundamental mechanisms of drug resistance in gastrointestinal cancers and applying this knowledge to develop more effective, precise, and durable cancer therapies. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this collection investigates the latest advancements in genomics, epigenomics, and systems biology to untangle the complexity of drug resistance specific to gastrointestinal tumors. It seeks to create a platform for disseminating cutting-edge research and innovative methodologies, inspiring novel strategies to anticipate and counteract resistance mechanisms. By integrating insights from various scientific disciplines, we strive to enhance the quality of life and survival rates for patients, ushering in a new era of cancer therapy characterized by targeted, personalized, and adaptable treatments that can keep pace with the evolving landscape of tumor resistance.
• Molecular Underpinnings of Resistance: Investigations into genetic mutations and epigenetic modifications that confer resistance to therapies. This includes exploring specific genes, regulatory RNAs, and chromatin remodeling processes.
• Role of the Tumor Microenvironment: Examination of how components such as cancer-associated fibroblasts, immune cells, and the extracellular matrix contribute to drug resistance, including the impact of hypoxia and nutrient availability.
• Cellular Drug Efflux and Metabolism: Insights into mechanisms by which cancer cells reduce intracellular drug concentrations, focusing on efflux transporters and drug metabolism alterations.
• Signaling Pathways and Cell Survival: Analysis of key pathways involved in cell proliferation, survival, and apoptosis, and their role in mediating resistance, including PI3K/AKT and MAPK pathways.
• Tumor Heterogeneity and Clonal Evolution: Exploration of tumor heterogeneity and how selective therapeutic pressure drives the emergence of resistant clones, emphasizing spatial and temporal tumor evolution.
• Pharmacogenomics and Personalized Medicine: Utilization of pharmacogenomic data to predict drug response and resistance, advocating for tailored therapeutic strategies based on individual genetic profiles.
• Overcoming Drug Resistance: Strategies to circumvent resistance, including combination therapies, drug repositioning, and novel agents targeting resistance mechanisms. This section also highlights integrating immunotherapy with conventional treatments.
• Computational Models and Bioinformatics: Application of computational tools, bioinformatics, and systems biology approaches to dissect drug resistance complexity, including developing predictive models based on multi-omics data.
• Emerging Technologies and Future Directions: Exploration of cutting-edge methodologies like single-cell sequencing, CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing, and advanced imaging techniques to unravel mechanisms of drug resistance.
• We seek various manuscript types, including original research, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspective pieces, offering significant insights into drug resistance and proposing innovative solutions for gastrointestinal oncology.
Keywords: Tumor Drug Resistance, Genetic Mutations, Epigenetic Regulation, Tumor Microenvironment, Drug Efflux Mechanisms, Signaling Pathways, Non-coding RNAs, Tumor Heterogeneity, Pharmacogenomics, Combination Therapy Strategies
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