Circular RNAs: emerging regulators of oxaliplatin response and resistance in cancer therapy.

Oxaliplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapeutic agent that is commonly used in the treatment of colorectal cancer and other types of cancers. Despite its widespread use, the efficacy of oxaliplatin is frequently undermined by the development of resistance. Recent advances in RNA biology have shown the important roles of circular RNAs (circRNAs) in modulating cancer progression and response to chemotherapeutic agents. These transcripts can influence sensitivity to oxaliplatin by regulating key pathways such as DNA damage repair, apoptosis, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition. This article explores the mechanistic roles of circRNAs in oxaliplatin resistance, their potential as predictive biomarkers, and future therapeutic strategies to overcome treatment limitations.