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Review  |  Open Access  |  10 Dec 2025

The role of long non-coding RNAs in breast cancer drug resistance: a comprehensive review

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J Transl Genet Genom. 2025;9:381-405.
10.20517/jtgg.2025.67 |  © The Author(s) 2025.
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Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) remains a major contributor to cancer-related morbidity and mortality among women globally. While systemic therapies have significantly advanced, the emergence of drug resistance continues to hinder durable clinical benefit, leading to treatment failure and disease relapse. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have gained recognition as key regulators in BC biology and therapeutic response, with growing evidence implicating them in resistance to chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted agents, and immunotherapy. This review provides a detailed overview of the molecular mechanisms through which specific lncRNAs promote resistance, emphasizing their roles in modulating processes such as programmed cell death, epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and remodeling of the tumor microenvironment. We further highlight common regulatory axes - such as competing endogenous RNA networks and the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B pathway - that serve as converging points across distinct resistance mechanisms. In addition, we discuss recent progress in harnessing lncRNAs as liquid biopsy biomarkers and examine the key challenges and opportunities in translating lncRNA-based targets into therapeutic strategies. Together, these insights offer a foundation for future research aimed at overcoming drug resistance in BC through novel lncRNA-centered interventions.

Keywords

Breast cancer, long non-coding RNAs, chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy

INTRODUCTION

Breast cancer (BC) remains the most common malignancy and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide, posing a tremendous clinical and public health challenge[1,2]. While the advent of personalized medicine, guided by molecular subtyping (including hormone receptor status and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression), has significantly improved patient outcomes, the acquisition of drug resistance remains the primary obstacle to curative treatment across all major therapeutic strategies[3,4]. This resistance leads to disease progression, metastasis, and recurrence, ultimately limiting the efficacy of chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy, and the rapidly developing field of immunotherapy[5,6].

To overcome this pervasive clinical challenge, there is an urgent need to elucidate the intricate molecular mechanisms underpinning acquired drug resistance and identify novel therapeutic targets. Recent advances in genomics have revealed that long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), defined as RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides lacking significant protein-coding potential, constitute a crucial layer of gene regulation[7-9]. Initially dismissed as transcriptional "noise", lncRNAs are now established as central molecular arbiters involved in almost every aspect of cancer biology, including initiation, progression, metastasis, and, critically, therapeutic response[10-12].

In BC, lncRNAs execute their regulatory functions through diverse mechanisms, such as acting as competing endogenous RNAs (ceRNAs), scaffolds for protein complexes, modulators of chromatin structure, and regulators of immune cell infiltration[13-15]. Accumulating evidence demonstrates that lncRNAs are master regulators of key cellular processes associated with drug resistance, including Epithelial-Mesenchymal Transition (EMT), modulation of the Tumor Microenvironment (TME), and various forms of Programmed Cell Death (PCD)[16-19]. Notably, recent high-impact studies have begun to uncover their critical roles in mediating resistance to novel therapeutic approaches, such as Ferroptosis[20,21] and Cuproptosis[22,23].

Given the complexity and clinical urgency of drug resistance, a comprehensive and up-to-date synthesis of lncRNA-mediated resistance is essential. This review systematically dissects the known functions and molecular mechanisms of lncRNAs across all four major therapeutic modalities: chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Crucially, we integrate these findings to highlight convergent regulatory pathways and shared molecular mechanisms that underpin lncRNA-mediated drug evasion, providing a unified view that transcends individual drug types.

ELUCIDATION OF MOLECULAR MECHANISMS: LNCRNAS AND THEIR REGULATION OF DRUG RESISTANCE IN BREAST CANCER

The challenge of drug resistance remains a formidable obstacle in BC therapy, manifesting across various domains, including resistance to chemotherapy, endocrine therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. The intricacies of drug resistance in BC involve a plethora of interconnected pathways: augmented DNA repair capacity, suppression of apoptotic gene expression, aberrant regulation of apoptotic proteins, cell cycle perturbations, alterations in drug target molecules, and heightened activity of drug efflux transporters[24]. Traditional research has largely centered on protein-coding genes implicated in drug resistance mechanisms, such as members of the adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette (ABC) transporter family, proteins related to EMT, and proteins involved in oxidative stress response[25-27]. However, these protein-coding genes represent a relatively modest portion of the human genome and exhibit limited tissue specificity, posing challenges for direct therapeutic targeting[28].

In contrast, lncRNAs, due to their ability to modulate downstream effectors and their heightened tissue and tumor specificity, have emerged as entities of considerable interest in oncological research. Numerous lncRNAs have been identified as key players in the orchestration of multidrug resistance in BC, particularly through the microRNA (miRNA)-ABC transporter axis. For example, lncRNA growth arrest-specific 5 (GAS5) has been observed to diminish the expression of ABC transport proteins, thereby potentiating the antitumor efficacy of doxorubicin in BC[29]. The lncRNA/EMT regulatory axis has been shown to influence tumor progression, with lncRNA Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 7 (SNHG7) driving EMT and consequent trastuzumab resistance by downregulating miRNA-186[30]. Additionally, lncRNAs have been implicated in the modulation of oxidative stress within BC cells, further delineating their multifaceted role in drug resistance[31,32].

Among the well-studied lncRNAs, the telomerase RNA component (TERC) plays a fundamental role in maintaining telomere length by acting as both scaffold and RNA template within the telomerase complex[33]. In conjunction with telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), TERC ensures chromosomal stability and sustained replicative capacity - features often exploited by cancer cells[34]. Dysregulation or mutation of TERC and TERT has been linked to BC development, and their aberrant activation may also reduce tumor sensitivity to DNA-damaging agents[35,36]. These findings highlight the TERC/TERT axis as a critical regulatory node in BC biology and a potential contributor to therapeutic resistance[37].

Recent insights reveal that certain lncRNAs can be conveyed to drug-sensitive cells via exosomes, effectuating the transmission of drug-resistant phenotypes. These lncRNAs govern the expression of gene sequences, modulate signaling cascades, influence cell cycle distribution, and impact drug-induced apoptosis[38-41]. Among these mechanisms, the most crucial involve lncRNAs functioning as ceRNAs or via exosomal pathways[42]. As BC evolves, certain lncRNAs, acting as ceRNAs, sequester and bind an increasing number of miRNAs. This process mitigates miRNA interactions with their target genes, resulting in augmented expression of these targets and subsequent alterations in key biological traits of BC, including invasiveness, metastatic potential, and drug resistance[24,43].

In summary, the mechanisms by which lncRNAs confer drug resistance in BC are profoundly diverse, ranging from intrinsic cellular changes to extrinsic microenvironmental modulation. At the cellular level, lncRNAs are central to the maintenance of the stemness phenotype and the induction of EMT, which collectively empower cancer cells with enhanced survival and metastatic potential[44]. Mechanistically, lncRNAs often function as scaffolds or ceRNAs, thereby perturbing canonical signaling cascades. Crucially, research across various therapeutic resistance models has revealed convergent regulatory modules, with lncRNAs frequently targeting and activating core survival pathways, notably the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (AKT)/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR)[45-49], Wingless/Integrated (WnT)/β-catenin[50-52], and nuclear factor κB (NF-κB) pathways[53-55]. Furthermore, their role extends beyond the cell, with lncRNA cargo within exosomes facilitating paracrine communication with the TME, enabling the transfer of resistance phenotypes to sensitive cells and polarizing immune cells towards a suppressive state[56-59]. This convergence on shared pathways underscores a fundamental principle: despite the varying primary targets of different therapies, the ultimate mechanisms of drug evasion orchestrated by lncRNAs often share common regulatory hubs. A unified understanding of these shared mechanisms is essential to inform the development of pan-resistance strategies that target lncRNA-mediated vulnerability.

THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN LNCRNAS AND CHEMOTHERAPEUTIC RESISTANCE IN BREAST CANCER

Chemotherapy is a cornerstone in the battle against BC, instrumental in curbing tumor proliferation and staving off recurrence[60]. For individuals diagnosed with early-stage BC, adjuvant chemotherapy post-surgery can significantly reduce the likelihood of disease relapse. In advanced stages, neoadjuvant chemotherapy can decrease tumor burden, transforming inoperable cases into surgical candidates. The advent of chemotherapy has markedly enhanced both the disease-free and overall survival rates for BC patients[61]. Therapeutic regimens often include agents such as anthracyclines, paclitaxel, and cisplatin. Despite these strides, chemoresistance poses a persistent barrier to the effective management of BC[5]. The advent of combination chemotherapy, an approach addressing resistance to single-agent therapies, has become a standard practice in BC treatment, gaining widespread adoption in clinical settings[62,63]. This strategy employs a multifaceted arsenal of chemotherapeutic drugs, each at varying dosages, to elevate the success rate of chemotherapy. However, simply increasing the dosage of chemotherapeutic agents does not guarantee the eradication of all cancer cells. The nonlinear dynamics of dose-response relationships contribute to the emergence of chemoresistance[64]. Understanding and countering this resistance is pivotal for optimizing therapeutic efficacy and improving patient outcomes.

Mechanisms underpinning paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer

Paclitaxel remains a frontline chemotherapeutic agent in BC, primarily exerting its antitumor effect by inducing cell cycle arrest and promoting apoptosis. However, resistance to paclitaxel is common in clinical practice and significantly undermines treatment efficacy[65-67]. Recent studies have shed light on the role of lncRNAs in paclitaxel resistance within BC, many of which exhibit markedly increased expression levels. For instance, H19 Imprinted Maternally Expressed Transcript (H19), highly expressed in paclitaxel-resistant BC cell lines, functions as a ceRNA for miR-340-3p, consequently upregulating tyrosine 3-monooxygenase/tryptophan 5-monooxygenase activation protein zeta (YWHAZ) protein expression and fostering paclitaxel resistance[68]. Long intergenic non-coding RNA 00337 (LINC00337), with elevated presence in BC tissue, is implicated in enhancing malignancy and chemoresistance by stimulating alternatively activated macrophages (M2)-like macrophage-mediated tumor phenotypes, such as cell viability and migration, and EMT protein expression[69].

Moreover, research by Gu et al. pinpointed a long non-coding RNA entry from the NONCODE database (NONHSAT141924) as a significant associate of paclitaxel resistance in BC, with overexpression correlating with diminished survival rates in the Michigan Cancer Foundation-7 (MCF-7) BC cell line, potentially through modulation of the phosphorylated cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB)/B-cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2) apoptosis signaling pathway[70]. Contrarily, certain lncRNAs associated with paclitaxel resistance, including maternally expressed gene 3 (MEG3), have been found in reduced levels in BC tissues. The role of MEG3 may include the modulation of paclitaxel resistance and cancer cell malignancy via the miR-4513/probasin-like protein D (PBLD) axis[71]. Similarly, Zheng et al. observed a significant downregulation of GAS5 in paclitaxel-treated BC cells, with its overexpression bolstering cell sensitivity to paclitaxel and triggering apoptosis through the miR-378a-5p/suppressor of fused homolog (SUFU) signaling pathway[72].

These findings collectively underscore the complexity of lncRNA-mediated drug resistance mechanisms, presenting a nuanced landscape of gene expression and signaling pathways that orchestrate the cellular response to paclitaxel. This intricacy highlights the potential of lncRNAs as both biomarkers and therapeutic targets in overcoming chemoresistance and advancing BC treatment [Table 1].

Table 1

LncRNAs and paclitaxel resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Paclitaxel AF178030.2 Upregulation TRPS1 [73]
CASC2 Upregulation miR-18a-5p/CDK19 [74]
DDX11-AS1 Upregulation miRNA-497 [75]
FTH1P3 Upregulation miR-206/ABCB1 [76]
H19 Upregulation miR-340-3p/YWHAZ [68]
LINC00115 Upregulation SETDB1/PLK3/HIF1α [77]
LINC00160 Upregulation C/EBPβ/TFF3 [78]
LINC00337 Upregulation M2-like macrophages [69]
MALAT1 Upregulation miR-497-5p/SHOC2 [79]
NEAT1 Upregulation miR-133b [80]
NEAT1 Upregulation miR-23a-3p/FOXA1 [81]
NONHSAT141924 Upregulation p-CREB/Bcl-2 [70]
OTUD6B-AS1 Upregulation miR-26a-5p/MTDH [82]
PRKCQ-AS1 Upregulation miR-361-5p/PIK3C3 [83]
UCA1 Upregulation miR-613/CDK12 [84]
XIST Upregulation miR-let-7d-5p/ATG16L1 [85]
AC073284.4 Downregulation miR-18b-5p/DOCK4 [86]
GAS5 Downregulation miR-378a-5p/SUFU [72]
MEG3 Downregulation miR-4513/PBLD [71]
TPT1-AS1 Downregulation miR-3156-5p/caspase 2 [87]

Doxorubicin resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Doxorubicin, an anthracycline antibiotic isolated from Streptomyces peucetius, is a principal chemotherapeutic agent employed against a spectrum of malignancies[88]. Its potent anticancer activity, characterized by the distinctive red chromophore, led to Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval in 1974 for the treatment of malignancies such as lymphomas and leukemias and later expanded to include breast, ovarian, lung, and gastric cancers[89]. Doxorubicin acts primarily by intercalating DNA strands, impeding topoisomerase II activity, and consequently interrupting cellular DNA replication, leading to apoptosis in neoplastic cells[90]. Today, doxorubicin stands as a frontline agent in the adjuvant treatment of BC. Despite its efficacy, doxorubicin's clinical use is limited by significant cardiotoxic and neurotoxic side effects, although careful dose management may mitigate these risks[91].

In their research, Zhang et al. noted a pronounced upregulation of carbonyl reductase 3-antisense RNA 1 (CBR3-AS1) in BC tissues, which was strongly associated with poor patient prognosis. They proposed that CBR3-AS1 influences doxorubicin resistance in BC by modulating the miR-25-3p/mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MEK4)/c-Jun N-terminal kinase 1 (JNK1) axis, with MEK4/JNK1 being the downstream effector of this axis. JNK1 silencing, in the context of CBR3-AS1 overexpression, appeared to enhance tissue sensitivity to doxorubicin[92]. Tang et al. identified that Dendritic Cell-Specific Transmembrane Protein 1 Antisense RNA 1 (DCST1-AS1) contributes to EMT through the Transforming Growth Factor β (TGF-β)/Smad signaling pathway by targeting annexin A1 (ANXA1), which may exacerbate doxorubicin resistance in triple-negative BC (TNBC) cells[93]. Luo et al. elucidated how plasmacytoma variant translocation 1 (PVT1) augments doxorubicin resistance by stabilizing nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), disrupting the Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap1)-Nrf2 interaction[94]. Chen et al. reported that GAS5, underexpressed in doxorubicin-resistant BC cells, could, when overexpressed, impede the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway by interacting with miR-221-3p, reducing adenosine triphosphate-binding cassette sub-family B member 1 (ABCB1) expression and enhancing doxorubicin sensitivity[29]. Aini et al. integrated data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and clinical samples to discover that small nucleolar RNA host gene 10 (SNHG10) was notably downregulated in TNBC relative to normal breast tissue. Their experimental findings indicated that SNHG10 negatively regulates miR-302b methylation, thereby impeding the development of doxorubicin resistance[95].

The comprehensive array of lncRNAs implicated in doxorubicin resistance in BC, detailed in Table 2, reflects the complexity of resistance mechanisms and underscores the potential of lncRNAs as therapeutic targets to circumvent chemoresistance and improve treatment efficacy.

Table 2

LncRNAs and doxorubicin resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Doxorubicin BORG Upregulation NF-κB [96]
CBR3-AS1 Upregulation miR-25-3p/MEK4/JNK1 [92]
DCST1-AS1 Upregulation ANXA1 [93]
DNAJC3-AS1 Upregulation miR-144 [97]
H19 Upregulation CUL4A/MDR1 [98]
HOTAIR Upregulation PI3K/AKT/mTOR [45]
LINC00518 Upregulation miR-199a/MRP1 [99]
LINC01977 Upregulation miR-212-3p/GOLM1 [100]
LOC645166 Upregulation NF-κB/GATA3 [101]
MALAT1 Upregulation miR-570-3p [102]
PVT1 Upregulation Nrf2 [94]
STMN1P2 Upregulation hnRNPU/EZH2/TRAF6 [103]
TUG1 Upregulation miR-9-5p/EIF5A2 [104]
XIST Upregulation miR-200c-3p/ANLN [105]
ZEB1-AS1 Upregulation miR-186-5p/ABCC1 [106]
GAS5 Downregulation miR-221-3p/DKK2 [29]
SNHG10 Downregulation miR-302b [95]

Docetaxel resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Docetaxel, a taxane chemotherapy medication isolated from the needles of the European yew tree (Taxus baccata), has broad-spectrum efficacy against various malignancies, including breast, lung, prostate, and stomach cancers. Discovered by French scientists in the 1980s, docetaxel was found to be more potent than its taxane predecessor, paclitaxel. The FDA approved it in 1996 for advanced or metastatic BC treatment, and subsequently for additional cancer types[107]. Despite adverse effects such as alopecia, fatigue, and neutropenia, docetaxel has been integral to numerous chemotherapy protocols, significantly enhancing cancer patients' prognoses and quality of life[108].

While the pool of studies exploring lncRNAs associated with docetaxel resistance in BC remains relatively small, emerging research begins to illuminate this area (as shown in Table 3). For instance, Zhang et al. identified long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 461 (LINC00461) as overexpressed in BC tissues, correlating with unfavorable patient outcomes. Significantly, LINC00461 expression levels were elevated in docetaxel-resistant BC cell lines, where it was shown to foster cell proliferation, migration, and drug resistance by modulating miR-411-5p[109]. Moreover, Ning et al. found that thymopoietin antisense RNA 1 (TMPO-AS1) was markedly upregulated in docetaxel-resistant BC cells. Their study indicated that TMPO-AS1 downregulation enhanced the sensitivity of BC cells to docetaxel by interacting with miR-1179 and reducing tripartite motif-containing 37 (TRIM37) levels, thereby implicating the TMPO-AS1/miR-1179/TRIM37 axis as a key contributor to docetaxel resistance[110]. In addition, research by Li et al. pinpointed long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 667 (LINC00667)'s significant upregulation in exosomes from BC tissues and docetaxel-resistant cells, which contributed to decreased chemosensitivity by influencing the miR-200b-3p/Bcl-2 pathway[111].

Table 3

LncRNAs and docetaxel resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Docetaxel LINC00461 Upregulation miR-411-5p [109]
LINC00667 Upregulation miR-200b-3p/Bcl-2 [111]
TMPO-AS1 Upregulation miR-1179/TRIM37 [110]

These studies offer critical insights into docetaxel resistance mechanisms in BC, highlighting the importance of lncRNAs as mediators and potential therapeutic targets. This knowledge provides a foundation for devising new therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating drug resistance and improving treatment outcomes in this challenging clinical scenario.

Epirubicin resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Epirubicin, an anthracycline chemotherapeutic agent, is deployed against an array of cancers, including breast, ovarian, and gastrointestinal cancers. Pioneered by the Italian pharmaceutical entity Farmitalia Carlo Erba, this drug has secured regulatory approval across various nations, such as the United States, Canada, and Japan. Despite its clinical efficacy, epirubicin carries the burden of adverse effects, including myelosuppression, fatigue, alopecia, and nausea[112,113]. Efforts to mitigate these detrimental effects are underway, including its synergistic use with other chemotherapeutic compounds.

In a pivotal study by Yao et al., the correlation between epirubicin resistance and lncRNA expression in BC was thoroughly examined. The researchers established epirubicin-resistant BC cell sublines and applied high-throughput sequencing to pinpoint differentially expressed lncRNAs. Among them, a long non-coding RNA entry from the NONCODE database (NONHSAT101069) was markedly upregulated in clinical BC samples, BC cell lines, and epirubicin-resistant sublines. Subsequent analysis suggested that it serves as a ceRNA, sequestering miR-129-5p and consequently modulating the expression of twist-related protein 1 (Twist1), a key player in the pathogenesis of epirubicin resistance[114]. Additionally, Zheng et al. delved into the role of Sprouty receptor tyrosine kinase signaling antagonist 4-intronic transcript 1 (SPRY4-IT1) in BC, uncovering its significant overexpression and associations with increased lymph node metastasis and recurrence rates. Elevated levels of SPRY4-IT1 were found to confer chemoresistance to epirubicin in BC cell lines MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231[115]. Wang et al. reported that long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 5620 (LINC005620) was highly expressed in epirubicin-resistant TNBC cell lines and implicated in the facilitation of malignant TNBC progression and resistance to epirubicin by modulating integrin β 1 (ITGB1) expression[116].

Collectively, these investigations into lncRNAs present a comprehensive view of the molecular intricacies underpinning epirubicin resistance in BC, as illustrated in Table 4. The elucidation of these mechanisms holds the promise of steering the development of novel therapeutic strategies, targeting lncRNAs to surmount chemoresistance, and enhancing the treatment of this formidable disease.

Table 4

LncRNAs and epirubicin resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Epirubicin LINC005620 Upregulation ITGB1 [116]
NONHSAT101069 Upregulation miR-129-5p/Twist1 [114]
SPRY4-IT1 Upregulation / [115]

5-fluorouracil resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

The 5-fluorouracil (5-FU), a pyrimidine analog used in chemotherapy, targets a variety of cancers, including those affecting the breast, colon, and stomach. Synthesized in the 1950s by Charles Heidelberger et al. at the University of Wisconsin[117], 5-FU has been a staple in cancer treatment since the 1960s. It combats cancer by inhibiting thymidylate synthase, an enzyme critical for DNA synthesis, thereby preventing tumor cell proliferation[118]. Despite its effectiveness, 5-FU is not without side effects, which include nausea, diarrhea, and leukopenia[119]. To improve patient outcomes, research efforts are directed towards combination therapies with other agents, developing prodrugs, and enhancing targeted drug delivery to ameliorate these adverse reactions.

Investigations into lncRNA contributions to 5-FU resistance in BC have revealed substantial insights. Li et al. noted a significant overexpression of nuclear enriched abundant transcript 1 (NEAT1) in BC tissues and its role in fostering invasiveness and chemoresistance by activating the EMT, mediated by the NEAT1/miR-211/high mobility group AT-hook 2 (HMGA2) axis[120]. Liang et al. observed that increased progression-associated lncRNA in breast cancer (PRLB) expression correlated with greater metastatic potential and reduced survival times, implicating PRLB in the aggravation of malignancy and chemoresistance, potentially via miR-4766-5p and Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) modulation[121]. Zhang et al. reported on colon cancer-associated transcript 2 (CCAT2), which was found to be highly expressed in BC, associated with lymph node metastasis, and hormone receptor status, contributing to 5-FU resistance through the regulation of miR-145[122]. The study by Luo et al. highlighted small nucleolar RNA, C/D box 3A (SNORD3A), anomalously downregulated in BC, where its overexpression did not affect proliferation but instead significantly heightened 5-FU susceptibility via the SNORD3A/miR-185-5p/uridine monophosphate synthase (UMPS) axis[123].

These studies underscore the complexity of 5-FU chemoresistance mechanisms and the emergent role of lncRNAs as modulators of this process. They collectively present a nuanced understanding of BC pathology and treatment resistance, offering promising avenues for developing new therapeutic strategies to effectively counteract 5-FU resistance in BC, as detailed in Table 5.

Table 5

LncRNAs and 5-fluorouracil resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
5-Fluorouracil CCAT2 Upregulation microRNA-145 [122]
CDR1-AS Upregulation miR-7/CCNE1 [124]
MIAT Upregulation GRP78/OCT4/MIAT/AKT [125]
NEAT1 Upregulation miR-211/HMGA2 [120]
PRLB Upregulation miR-4766-5p/SIRT1 [121]
SNORD3A Downregulation miR-185-5p/UMPS [123]

Platinum resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Platinum-based chemotherapeutics, named for their key component, platinum, are pivotal in treating various cancers, including ovarian, testicular, and lung cancers. Cisplatin, discovered in 1965 at Michigan State University, marked the advent of platinum drugs in cancer therapy. It was introduced in clinical practice in the late 1970s, establishing itself as a foundational chemotherapy agent for numerous malignancies. Successors such as carboplatin and oxaliplatin were developed during the 1980s, offering enhanced efficacy and a reduced side effect profile. Among these, cisplatin-based treatments are vital in managing BC[126], primarily through inducing DNA damage and mitochondrial apoptosis[127]. Nonetheless, the adverse effects, particularly nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity, persist as significant challenges[128-131]. Current research is aimed at augmenting their therapeutic index through drug combinations, novel compounds, and precision delivery techniques.

In the realm of lncRNA research, Zhou et al. pinpointed highly upregulated in liver cancer (HULC) as a pivotal regulator of insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) in BC, with its upregulation promoting IGF1R expression and consequent activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, enhancing cancer stemness and cisplatin resistance[132]. Su et al. delineated how differentiation antagonizing non-protein coding RNA (DANCR) interacts with Krüppel-like factor 5 (KLF5) in TNBC cells, modulating cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (p27) transcription and influencing cisplatin chemoresistance[133]. The exploration of García-Venzor et al. into the role of lncRNA methionine adenosyl transferase 2 non-catalytic β subunit (lncMat2B) in BC revealed its association with increased survival under cisplatin treatment in MCF-7 cells, attributed to diminished DNA damage and reactive oxygen species production[134]. Tang et al. observed a marked reduction of taurine-upregulated gene 1 (TUG1) in TNBC tissues, unveiling its potential to modulate the Wnt signaling pathway through the miR-197/Nemo-like kinase (NLK) axis, thereby augmenting cisplatin sensitivity in TNBC cells[135]. Furthermore, Sheng et al. reported the downregulation of cardiac mesoderm-specific nuclear protein (CARMN) across different stages of breast malignancy, with its involvement in inhibiting DNA replication and amplifying cisplatin sensitivity via the miR143-3p/Minichromosome maintenance complex component 5 (MCM5) axis in TNBC[136].

These investigations elucidate the intricate role of lncRNAs in modulating platinum drug resistance in BC, providing a promising avenue for novel therapeutic strategies aimed at circumventing chemoresistance and enhancing treatment outcomes, as summarized in Table 6.

Table 6

LncRNAs and cisplatin resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Cisplatin AFAP1-AS1 Upregulation miR-195/miR-545 [137]
DANCR Upregulation KLF5/p27 [133]
HCP5 Upregulation PTEN [138]
HULC Upregulation IGF1R-PI3K-AKT [132]
LINC00511 Upregulation / [139]
LncMAT2B Upregulation DNA damage repair [134]
NEAT1 Upregulation microRNA-141-3p/KLF12 [140]
PART1 Upregulation / [141]
SNHG1 Upregulation miR-381 [142]
SNHG15 Upregulation miR-381 [143]
SNHG15 Upregulation miR-345-5p [144]
CARMN Downregulation miR143-3p [136]
MT1JP Downregulation miR-24-3p [145]
TUG1 Downregulation miR-197 [135]

THE ROLE OF LNCRNAS IN MODULATING ENDOCRINE THERAPY RESISTANCE IN BREAST CANCER

Endocrine therapy represents a cornerstone treatment for hormone-sensitive BC, aiming to curtail cancer cell proliferation by inhibiting hormone actions, notably estrogen, that promote tumor growth. This therapeutic approach spans the continuum of BC management, from neoadjuvant (pre-surgical) to adjuvant (post-surgical) therapy and is also crucial during salvage treatment for recurrent disease[146,147]. The pharmacological arsenal of endocrine therapy primarily comprises estrogen receptor antagonists, including tamoxifen and toremifene, which obstruct the oncogenic effects of estrogen on BC cells, and aromatase inhibitors, which diminish estrogen synthesis within the body[148]. The mechanisms underlying resistance to endocrine therapy are multifaceted and remain incompletely elucidated. However, emerging evidence highlights the significance of epigenetic modifications influencing estrogen levels, disruptions in estrogen signaling pathways, and the interplay between these pathways as pivotal factors contributing to endocrine therapy resistance in BC. These insights underscore the complexity of hormonal regulation and its impact on treatment efficacy[149,150]. Endocrine therapy is indispensable for managing hormone-sensitive BC, markedly lowering the risk of cancer recurrence and enhancing survival prospects. Nevertheless, the challenge of therapy resistance necessitates further investigation to decode the underlying mechanisms, with a particular focus on the contribution of lncRNAs. Understanding these aspects is crucial for developing innovative strategies to surmount resistance, thereby optimizing treatment outcomes for BC patients. The elucidation of lncRNA-mediated mechanisms offers promising avenues for future research aimed at enhancing the therapeutic arsenal against hormone-sensitive BC.

Tamoxifen resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Tamoxifen (TAM), a pioneering selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM), has been instrumental in both the treatment and prevention of BC by antagonizing estrogen's influence on breast tissues. Initially developed as a contraceptive in the 1960s, subsequent research unveiled its efficacy against BC, leading to FDA approval in 1973 for advanced cases and in 1998 for prophylaxis in high-risk individuals. As a cornerstone of endocrine therapy, especially for premenopausal women, tamoxifen significantly lowers BC risk by up to 50%, decreases mortality by about 30%, and reduces recurrence rates among survivors[147,151-153]. Enhancing the effectiveness of tamoxifen, including its use in combination therapies and the development of novel SERMs with minimized adverse effects, remains a focal point of ongoing research.

Recent studies have elucidated the role of lncRNAs in mediating tamoxifen resistance. Shi et al. discovered down-regulated in liver cancer 1 (DILA1), a lncRNA that aberrantly interacts with Cyclin D1 in tamoxifen-resistant cells. DILA1 suppression was observed to diminish Cyclin D1 levels, curb cancer cell proliferation, and re-sensitize cells to tamoxifen[154]. Wang et al. found a marked increase in H19 expression in tamoxifen-resistant cells and tissues, with its knockdown enhancing tamoxifen sensitivity by modulating autophagy via the S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase (SAHH)/DNA methyltransferase 3 beta (DNMT3B) axis[155]. Lin et al. pinpointed brain-derived neurotrophic factor antisense RNA (BDNF-AS), overexpressed due to Myocyte enhancer factor 2A (MEF2A)-regulated enhancers in endocrine-resistant BC and TNBC, which could drive resistance and tumor progression through the Ribonuclease Inhibitor 1 (RNH1)/Tripartite Motif-Containing 2 (TRIM21)/mTOR pathway[156]. Xue et al. reported the upregulation of HOX transcript antisense RNA (HOTAIR) in tamoxifen-resistant tissues, implicating its role in fostering ligand-independent estrogen receptor activity and consequent resistance[157]. Additionally, Li et al. identified significant upregulation of urothelial carcinoma-associated 1 (UCA1) in BC tissues, influencing tamoxifen resistance via the Enhancer of Zeste 2 Polycomb Repressive Complex 2 Subunit (EZH2)/Cyclin-Dependent Kinase Inhibitor 1 (p21) and PI3K/AKT pathways[158]. Furthermore, Shi et al. highlighted the underexpression of A disintegrin and metalloproteinase metallopeptidase with thrombospondin type 1 motif, 9-Antisense RNA 2 (ADAMTS9-AS2) in BC and tamoxifen-resistant cells, noting that reduced ADAMTS9-AS2 levels could attenuate phosphatase and tensin homolog (PTEN) expression and augment tamoxifen resistance by targeting miRNA-130a-5p[159].

These insights into lncRNA-mediated tamoxifen resistance underscore the complexity of hormonal therapy evasion in BC. While existing research has begun to unravel the intricacies of this resistance mechanism and the pivotal role of lncRNAs, further exploration is crucial for developing more effective therapeutic strategies to overcome tamoxifen resistance[160,161] (as shown in Table 7).

Table 7

LncRNAs and tamoxifen resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Tamoxifen AGPG Upregulation PURα/E2F1 [162]
ATXN8OS Upregulation miR-16-5p/VASP [163]
BDNF-AS Upregulation RNH1/TRIM21/mTOR [156]
BNAT1 Upregulation ER Signaling [164]
CYTOR Upregulation miR-125a-5p [165]
DILA1 Upregulation Cyclin D1 [154]
DLGAP1-AS2 Upregulation ER signaling [166]
DSCAM-AS1 Upregulation miR-137/EPS8 [167]
FOXD3-AS1 Upregulation miR-363 [168]
H19 Upregulation autophagy [155]
HNF1A-AS1 Upregulation miR-363/SERTAD3 [169]
HOTAIR Upregulation ER signaling [157]
HOTAIRM1 Upregulation HOXA1 [170]
IGF2-AS Upregulation / [171]
Lnc-DC Upregulation STAT3/Bcl-2 [172]
LINC00152 Upregulation TRPC1/ROS/ferroptosis [173]
LINC02568 Upregulation miR-1233-5p/ESR1 [174]
LINP1 Upregulation ER signaling [175]
LOL Upregulation let-7 [176]
MAFG-AS1 Upregulation miR-339-5p/CDK2 [177]
PRKCQ-AS1 Upregulation miR-200a-3p/MKP1 [178]
ROR Upregulation MAPK/ERK [179]
SNHG6 Upregulation miR-101 [180]
TTN-AS1 Upregulation miR-107/PI3K/AKT [181]
UCA1 Upregulation EZH2/p21 [158]
ADAMTS9-AS2 Downregulation miR-130a-5p/PTEN [159]
GAS5 Downregulation mTOR pathway [49]

Aromatase resistance mechanisms in breast cancer

Aromatase inhibitors constitute a cornerstone therapy for postmenopausal women with BC, targeting the enzyme aromatase to impede the conversion of androgens into estrogens, thereby diminishing estrogen levels. The genesis of aromatase inhibitors traces back to the 1960s with the development of aminoglutethimide, initially intended for Cushing's syndrome but later recognized for its capacity to lower estrogen levels in BC patients. Subsequent generations, including anastrozole and letrozole, emerged in the 1980s, showcasing superior efficacy over preceding treatments in minimizing BC recurrence risk and enhancing survival rates. Presently, these inhibitors are embraced as primary therapy for hormone receptor-positive BC in postmenopausal women[182-184]. Research endeavors continue to refine their clinical application and delineate predictive biomarkers to identify the subset of patients most likely to derive benefit.

Chen et al. unveiled that Deiodinase, Iodothyronine, Type III, Antisense RNA (DIO3OS) levels were heightened in tissues from patients exhibiting resistance to aromatase inhibitors. DIO3OS was found to foster metabolic adaptability in BC cells by activating the Polypyrimidine Tract Binding Protein 1 (PTBP1)/lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) glycolytic pathway, thereby ensuring cell survival under the estrogen-deprived conditions induced by aromatase inhibition[185]. Additionally, the retrospective analysis of 290 BC cases by Huang et al. underscored high Long Intergenic Non-Protein Coding RNA 309 (LINC00309) expression as a harbinger of adverse disease-free survival, establishing its association with reduced survival durations. High LINC00309 expression also correlated significantly with resistance to hormone therapies, including SERMs and aromatase inhibitors[186]. Moreover, the work by Ingle et al. highlighted the pivotal function of MIR2052 host gene (MIR2052HG) in sustaining estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) levels through the modulation of AKT/Forkhead Box O3 (FOXO3)-mediated estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) transcription and curtailing ERα degradation via ubiquitination. The expression of MIR2052HG also correlated with recurrence risk in patients receiving aromatase inhibitors[187].

These investigations illuminate the critical involvement of lncRNAs in the resistance mechanisms to aromatase inhibitors in BC, underscoring the necessity for further study to unravel the intricate roles and mechanisms of these lncRNAs in the onset and progression of the disease, as delineated in Table 8.

Table 8

LncRNAs and aromatase inhibitor resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Aromatase inhibitor BCAR4 Upregulation / [173]
DIO3OS Upregulation PTBP1 [185]
LINC00309 Upregulation / [186]
MIR2052HG Upregulation AKT/FOXO3/ESR1 [187]

LONG NON-CODING RNAS AND THEIR ROLE IN TARGETED THERAPY RESISTANCE IN BREAST CANCER

Targeted therapy represents a transformative approach in BC treatment, capitalizing on the selective targeting of molecules crucial for cancer growth and progression[188]. This strategy contrasts with conventional chemotherapy by offering enhanced efficacy and a reduced side effect profile due to its specificity for genetic aberrations driving tumorigenesis. By inhibiting signal transduction pathways essential for tumor cell survival, targeted therapies curtail tumor growth while mitigating systemic adverse effects, such as chemotherapy-associated skin ulceration and alopecia[189,190]. Determining a patient's eligibility for targeted therapy typically necessitates genetic testing to identify actionable mutations[191]. Advancements in the molecular understanding of BC have unveiled several targets, including HER2, Insulin-like Growth Factor Receptor (IGFR), FGFR, mTOR, and Cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6)[192], propelling the development of therapies such as trastuzumab for HER2-positive tumors, which constitute 18%-20% of BC cases[193]. Despite the effectiveness of targeted therapies, the response rate to trastuzumab in HER2-positive BC patients remains below 35%[194,195].

Trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody developed in the 1990s by Genentech, revolutionized HER2-positive BC treatment by inhibiting HER2 signaling. FDA-approved in 1998 for metastatic and in 2006 for early-stage HER2-positive BC, trastuzumab significantly enhances survival rates, establishing it as a cornerstone in the management of this BC subtype. Ongoing research seeks to optimize trastuzumab's efficacy through combinational strategies and broaden its application to other HER2-expressing malignancies[196,197].

The intersection of lncRNAs with trastuzumab resistance has been a focal point of recent studies[184,198]. Dong et al. identified Small Nucleolar RNA Host Gene 14 (SNHG14) as a pro-tumorigenic lncRNA that also mediates trastuzumab resistance, acting through the modulation of Poly(A) Binding Protein Cytoplasmic 1 (PABPC1) expression via Histone H3 Lysine 27 (H3K27) acetylation[199]. Moreover, Zhu et al. elucidated the involvement of UCA1 in trastuzumab sensitivity modulation via the miR-18a/Yes-associated protein 1 (YAP1) axis[200].

These insights underscore the pivotal role of lncRNAs in shaping the landscape of targeted therapy resistance in BC, highlighting their potential as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, further research is imperative to decode the comprehensive mechanisms by which lncRNAs contribute to resistance and to integrate these findings into clinical practice.

While most current studies focus on linear lncRNAs, emerging evidence suggests that circular RNAs (circRNAs) may also participate in therapeutic resistance[201-203]. Notably, a recent investigation identified a circRNA named BISC that restores sensitivity to Bromodomain and Extra-Terminal domain proteins (BET) inhibitors in TNBC by blocking Insulin-Like Growth Factor 2 mRNA-Binding Protein 2 (IGF2BP2)-mediated translation of cellular MYC proto-oncogene (c-MYC)[204]. These findings not only broaden the spectrum of non-coding RNA involvement in drug resistance but also point to the potential of circRNA-based interventions in overcoming resistance to targeted therapies, as delineated in Table 9.

Table 9

LncRNAs and trastuzumab resistance in breast cancer

Drugs LncRNAs Expression Genes and pathways Reference
Trastuzumab ATB Upregulation miR200c/ZEB1/ZNF-217 [205]
BANCR Upregulation miR-34a-5p/HMGA1 [206]
BCAR4 Upregulation miR-665/YAP1/TGF-β [207]
H19 Upregulation / [208]
HOTAIR Upregulation TGF-β [209]
LINC00589 Downregulation miR-100/DLG5 [210]
LINC00969 Upregulation HuR/HER2 [211]
OIP5-AS1 Upregulation miR-381-3p/HMGB3 [212]
SNHG7 Upregulation miR-186 [30]
SNHG14 Upregulation H3K27/PABPC1 [199]
UCA1 Upregulation miR-18a/Yes [200]
ZNF649-AS1 Upregulation ATG5 [213]
ZNF649-AS1 Upregulation PRPF8/EXOC7-S [214]
GAS5 Downregulation miR-21/PTEN [215]

THE INFLUENCE OF LONG NON-CODING RNAS ON IMMUNOTHERAPY RESISTANCE IN BREAST CANCER

BC immunotherapy, an evolving frontier in cancer treatment, employs biological agents to enhance the ability of the immune system of patients to combat cancer. This therapy might be categorized as active, aiming to directly stimulate the immune response, or passive, involving the administration of immune cells or proteins. Advances in immunology have positioned immunotherapy as a viable adjunct to conventional treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, endocrine therapy, and targeted therapy, offering a potentially more precise and less detrimental modality for BC management. Initial studies underscored the immunomodulatory potential of agents such as Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) and various cytokines in BC[216]. Contemporary breakthroughs have ushered in novel immunotherapeutic approaches, including immune checkpoint blockade and T-cell therapy[217,218]. Despite BC's classification as a "cold" tumor, characterized by a subdued immune response, recent clinical trials, notably the IMpassion130 study (NCT02425891), have illuminated the efficacy of immunotherapy in treating TNBC[219], particularly when combined with atezolizumab and nab-paclitaxel for programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1)-positive TNBC, marking a significant advance in treatment paradigms[220].

However, the path to widespread immunotherapeutic success in BC is hindered by immune evasion and resistance mechanisms. Emerging research implicates lncRNAs in modulating immune responses, fostering an immunosuppressive tumor milieu, and contributing to resistance against immunotherapy.

Immuno-lncRNA signatures have been extensively developed to predict prognosis, immune status, and the sensitivity of BC patients to immune checkpoint inhibitors[221,222]. These lncRNAs regulate various PCD pathways, thereby influencing immune resistance. For example, signatures associated with Necroptosis[223,224] can predict the tumor immune microenvironment, while Cuproptosis-related ceRNA networks may imply mechanisms of endocrine or immunotherapy resistance[225]. Notably, lncRNA ovarian tumor domain-containing 6B antisense RNA 1 (OTUD6B-AS1) has been shown to exert a dual role, mediating both immune evasion and Ferroptosis resistance[20], highlighting its potential as a prognostic and therapeutic biomarker. Tumor cell metabolic reprogramming is closely linked to immune escape and resistance. The oncogenic lncRNA LINK-A (or LINC01139) is demonstrated to promote tumor immune evasion by downregulating cancer cell antigen presentation and inhibiting intrinsic tumor suppression[226,227]. Furthermore, the expression of lncRNA long intergenic non-protein coding RNA 2544 (LINC02544) drives immunotherapy resistance in TNBC through the miR-497-5p/cell cycle associated protein 1 (CAPRIN1) axis[228]. The influence of lncRNAs on the TME is also critical. For instance, PVT1 expressed by tumor-associated nonmyelinating Schwann cells (TASc) promotes the Kynurenine pathway and leads to tumor immune exclusion in pancreatic cancer[229], suggesting that lncRNAs regulate TME cell populations. Moreover, exosomal non-coding RNAs, including lncRNAs, are crucial mediators of drug and immunotherapy resistance in BC[230,231].

Notably, the LINK-A lncRNA has been linked to antigen loss and diminished tumor immunogenicity in metastatic BC[227]. NF-κB interacting long non-coding RNA (NKILA) expression was found to increase susceptibility of tumor-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes and T helper type 1 (TH1) cells to activation-induced cell death (AICD) in a BC mouse model[232]. Additionally, Pei et al. demonstrated that targeting small nucleolar RNA host gene 1 (SNHG1) in BC cell lines could attenuate regulatory T cell (Treg) differentiation by upregulating miR-448 and downregulating indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) expression, potentially obstructing BC's immune escape[233].

These findings spotlight lncRNAs as pivotal regulators of the immune landscape in BC, influencing the efficacy of immunotherapy. The delineation of lncRNA-mediated pathways presents a promising avenue for overcoming immunotherapy resistance, paving the way for enhanced therapeutic strategies in BC management.

SUMMARY OF SHARED REGULATORY PATHWAYS

Despite the heterogeneity of therapeutic strategies in BC, accumulating evidence suggests that the mechanisms by which lncRNAs confer drug resistance often converge upon a limited set of conserved signaling pathways[19,234]. Elucidating these shared molecular nodes is essential for the development of unified therapeutic approaches capable of overcoming multidrug resistance.

A prominent mechanism involves the ceRNA network, whereby lncRNAs function as molecular decoys for specific miRNAs, thereby relieving suppression on downstream mRNAs involved in drug efflux, apoptosis, and EMT[235,236]. This regulatory axis has been widely implicated across multiple therapeutic contexts. For instance, H19 contributes to paclitaxel resistance through the miR-340-3p/YWHAZ pathway[237], while UCA1 mediates tamoxifen resistance by modulating the miR-18a/YAP1 axis[19].

Another frequently dysregulated node is the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway, which governs cell survival, proliferation, and metabolic reprogramming[238,239]. Multiple lncRNAs, including HOTAIR and MIR2052HG, have been shown to activate this cascade in the setting of doxorubicin, trastuzumab, and aromatase inhibitor resistance[240,241]. These findings emphasize the centrality of PI3K/AKT signaling as a conduit for lncRNA-driven therapeutic evasion.

The Wnt/β-catenin pathway has also emerged as a common target of lncRNA regulation, particularly in chemotherapy and immunotherapy resistance[242]. LncRNAs such as GAS5 and TUG1 influence this pathway by modulating apoptosis, stemness, and the expression of ABC transporters[19,243].

Moreover, NF-κB signaling, which plays a critical role in inflammation-mediated survival and resistance[244], is activated by lncRNAs such as BORG (BMP/OP-responsive gene, an lncRNA reported to activate NF-κB signaling and contribute to chemotherapy resistance) and (a long non-coding RNA annotated as a predicted genomic locus (LOC identifier)) (LOC645166), particularly in response to anthracycline-based chemotherapies[96,101]. These interactions support the role of lncRNAs in maintaining an inflammation-associated, pro-survival tumor phenotype.

In addition to intracellular signaling, exosome-mediated intercellular communication represents an emerging mechanism by which lncRNAs influence the TME[245,246]. Several lncRNAs, including H19, AGAP2-AS1, and UCA1, have been identified in exosomes derived from resistant cells, where they can transmit resistance traits to adjacent drug-sensitive cells[231]. This paracrine mechanism highlights the non-cell-autonomous role of lncRNAs in shaping resistance phenotypes and remodeling the TME.

Taken together, these convergent regulatory pathways - particularly the ceRNA network, PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, NF-κB signaling, and exosomal transfer - represent key molecular hubs that integrate lncRNA-mediated resistance across diverse therapeutic contexts. Targeting these shared axes may offer a rational and potentially more effective strategy to overcome multidrug resistance in BC.

CURRENT CHALLENGES AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

Despite notable advances in delineating the roles of lncRNAs in BC drug resistance, several key obstacles must be addressed before these findings can be effectively translated into clinical application.

First, the functional characterization and mechanistic understanding of lncRNAs remain limited. While numerous lncRNAs have been associated with resistance phenotypes, only a small proportion have been mechanistically validated. Many exhibit limited sequence conservation, highly tissue- or context-specific expression, and complex subcellular localization patterns, complicating reproducibility across models and hindering definitive functional annotation.

Second, there is a scarcity of in vivo evidence and clinical correlation. Most available studies are confined to in vitro models or small patient cohorts, limiting their translational relevance. The absence of standardized preclinical animal models and the lack of prospective clinical datasets integrating lncRNA expression profiles pose significant barriers to establishing causality or evaluating predictive value in treatment response.

Third, nomenclatural inconsistency and incomplete genomic annotation continue to impede progress. Redundant naming, overlapping annotations, and the absence of curated entries in major databases contribute to confusion across studies and limit the utility of large-scale bioinformatics or integrative meta-analyses. Harmonizing lncRNA annotation frameworks will be essential to improve data standardization and cross-study comparability.

Fourth, therapeutic targeting of lncRNAs remains technically challenging. Although approaches such as antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats, referring to the genome-editing system mentioned in this Section)-based strategies have demonstrated promise in preclinical settings, their clinical applicability is hampered by issues of molecular instability, immunogenicity, poor tissue penetration, and off-target effects. Advanced delivery platforms - such as lipid nanoparticles, aptamer-conjugated carriers, or engineered exosomes - will be pivotal in enabling safe and effective lncRNA-targeted interventions.

Finally, the clinical implementation of lncRNA-based biomarkers requires rigorous validation. Although circulating or exosomal lncRNAs have shown potential as non-invasive indicators of drug resistance, their integration into routine diagnostics is constrained by technical variability in RNA isolation, quantification, and normalization. Multicenter, prospective trials incorporating standardized assays and clinically meaningful endpoints are urgently needed to establish their diagnostic, prognostic, or predictive utility.

Looking forward, future research should emphasize the systematic identification of pan-resistance lncRNAs, the construction of integrative regulatory networks, and the rational combination of lncRNA-targeted therapies with existing treatment regimens. Cross-disciplinary efforts bridging RNA biology, systems oncology, and translational medicine will be essential to overcome current limitations. Ultimately, a deeper mechanistic understanding of lncRNA-driven resistance may pave the way for more precise, durable, and personalized therapeutic strategies in BC.

CONCLUSIONS

lncRNAs have emerged as pivotal regulators of drug resistance in BC, influencing diverse biological processes and factors, including apoptosis, EMT, and the TME. Despite the heterogeneity of treatment modalities, mounting evidence indicates that many lncRNAs converge on common signaling axes - such as the ceRNA network, PI3K/AKT, Wnt/β-catenin, and NF-κB pathways - highlighting their potential as unifying therapeutic targets. While the clinical translation of lncRNA-based diagnostics and therapeutics remains challenging, continued efforts in mechanistic elucidation, in vivo validation, and delivery optimization hold promise for overcoming resistance and advancing precision oncology in BC.

DECLARATIONS

Authors’ contributions

Conceptualization, writing - original draft: Zeng Q, Lv B

Supervision, writing - review: Xu Y, Ma J

Validation, writing - editing: Ding C, Liang W

All authors reviewed the manuscript.

Availability of data and materials

Not applicable.

Financial support and sponsorship

None

Conflicts of interest

Xu Y is a Junior Editorial Board Member of Journal of Translational Genetics and Genomics. Xu Y was not involved in any part of the editorial process of this manuscript, including reviewer selection, manuscript handling, or decision-making, while the other authors have declared that they have no conflicts of interest.

Ethical approval and consent to participate

Not applicable.

Consent for publication

Not applicable.

Copyright

© The Author(s) 2025.

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The role of long non-coding RNAs in breast cancer drug resistance: a comprehensive review

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Journal of Translational Genetics and Genomics
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