International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology
Volume 14, Issue 2

Irinotecan Resistance Mechanisms in Cancer: Challenges and Opportunities

Bindu Ghodeswar1,2*, Santosh Chhajed2

1Amrutvahini College of Pharmacy, Sangamner, Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, Maharashtra, India.

2MET’s Institute of Pharmacy, Bhujbal Knowledge City, Adgaon, Nashik, Affiliated to Savitribai Phule Pune University, Pune, Maharashtra, India. 

Received: 18th May, 2024; Revised: 02nd May, 2024; Accepted: 08th June, 2024; Available Online: 25th June, 2024 

ABSTRACT

Irinotecan, a topoisomerase I inhibitor, has been widely used in the treatment of various solid tumors, including colorectal, lung, and pancreatic cancers. However, its efficacy is often limited by the development of resistance mechanisms within cancer cells. Understanding these resistance mechanisms is crucial for improving treatment outcomes and developing effective therapeutic strategies. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the mechanisms underlying irinotecan resistance in cancer. Key resistance mechanisms discussed include the overexpression of drug efflux pumps, activation of DNA repair pathways, altered drug metabolism, and microenvironmental factors. Clinical implications, challenges, and emerging opportunities in overcoming irinotecan resistance are also explored, including the identification of biomarkers predictive of response/resistance, combination therapies targeting multiple resistance pathways, and advancements in drug delivery systems. By elucidating the complexities of irinotecan resistance, this review aims to inform future research directions and facilitate the development of personalized treatment approaches for patients with resistant cancers.

Keywords: Irinotecan, Resistance mechanisms, Cancer treatment, Drug efflux pumps, DNA repair pathways, Drug metabolism,

Tumor microenvironment, Biomarkers, Combination therapy, Drug delivery systems, Personalized medicine.

International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology (2024); DOI: 10.25258/ijddt.14.2.74

How to cite this article: Ghodeswar B, Chhajed S. Irinotecan Resistance Mechanisms in Cancer: Challenges and Opportunities. International Journal of Drug Delivery Technology. 2024;14(2):1099-1105.

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