Signaling networks and MiRNA crosstalk in ovarian cancer chemoresistance.

Abstract

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC), accounting for 90-95% of all ovarian cancer (OC) cases, is the most lethal gynaecological malignancy, primarily due to late-stage diagnosis and the development of chemoresistance. While initial responses to Platinum- and Taxane-based chemotherapy are favorable, nearly 70% of patients relapse within five years. Although signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, MAPK, NF-κB, Notch, and Wnt/β-catenin have been individually studied in the context of chemoresistance, recent evidence highlights the importance of dynamic feedback loops and crosstalk among these networks in sustaining the resistant phenotype. Moreover, dysregulated microRNAs (miRNAs), as post-transcriptional regulators, fine-tune these pathways, creating self-sustaining circuits that promote drug efflux, inhibit apoptosis, and maintain cancer stemness. Reciprocal regulation between miRNAs and signaling components establishes robust networks that amplify chemoresistant phenotypes. The review provides a comprehensive overview of the molecular mechanisms driving chemoresistance, emphasising critical elements of signalling pathways and associated miRNAs that contribute to resistance and may function as biomarkers or therapeutic targets to mitigate chemoresistance. To improve clinical outcomes, future research should focus on identifying resistance-associated miRNA signatures and targeting nodal points within miRNA-signaling networks, thereby enabling the development of personalized therapies to overcome drug resistance in EOC.