Unraveling the role of the P2X7 receptor in cancer radioresistance: Molecular insights and therapeutic implications

Abstract

The P2X7 receptor, a key player in purinergic signaling, is a crucial factor in modulating the response of cancer cells to radiotherapy. The aim of this study was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms by which P2X7 receptor activation contributes to radioresistance in different cancer types. P2X7 receptor signaling influences cellular processes such as DNA damage repair and inflammatory responses, thereby improving tumor survival after radiation exposure. Activation of the P2X7 receptor leads to changes in the tumor microenvironment and promotes an adaptive response that enables cancer cells to resist therapeutic interventions. Therefore, targeting the P2X7 receptor could represent a new therapeutic strategy against cancer. By linking molecular insights with therapeutic implications, this research highlights the P2X7 receptor as a promising target for overcoming radioresistance in cancer therapy and paves the way for novel combination approaches that could significantly improve patient outcomes.