Glutathione S-transferase π (GSTπ) is a Phase II metabolic enzyme that is an important facilitator of cellular detoxification. Traditional dogma asserts that GSTπ functions to catalyze glutathione (GSH)-substrate conjunction to preserve the macromolecule upon exposure to oxidative stress, thus defending cells against various toxic compounds. Over the past 20 years, abnormal GSTπ expression has been linked to the occurrence of tumor resistance to chemotherapy drugs, demonstrating that this enzyme possesses functions beyond metabolism. This revelation reveals exciting possibilities in the realm of drug discovery, as GSTπ inhibitors and its prodrugs offer a feasible strategy in designing anticancer drugs with the primary purpose of reversing tumor resistance. In connection with the authors’ current research, we provide a review on the biological function of GSTπ and current developments in GSTπ-targeting drugs, as well as the prospects of future strategies.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease, the pathogenesis of which is influenced by genetic and epigenetic events. Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is extracellular DNA that is present in a number of bodily fluids, including blood, synovial fluid and cerebrospinal fluid. Compared with performing a tissue biopsy, ctDNA examination presents the advantages of minimal invasion and greater convenience. ctDNA is commonly used to identify actionable genomic alterations, monitor treatment responses, unravel therapeutic resistance and potentially detect disease progression prior to clinical and radiological confirmation. The technique can potentially serve as a non-invasive diagnostic tool in personalized medicine, as it demonstrates prognostic value in the management of patients with CRC. ctDNA detection continues to demonstrate inherent advantages compared with other methods, thus serving an increasingly important role in tumor monitoring and oncotherapy. The aim of the current review was to explore the clinical applications of ctDNA in patients with CRC, including early detection and screening, medication guidance, resistance prediction, and residual lesion and recurrence monitoring. Furthermore, several technical methods for ctDNA detection and analysis are explored, as well as other potential biomarkers.
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