Researchers at Imperial College London have discovered that an unusual DNA structure could be key to reversing chemotherapy resistance in ovarian cancer, one of the deadliest cancers affecting women worldwide.
The study, published in Genome Biology, highlights the role of four-stranded DNA formations known as G-quadruplexes in helping cancer cells evade treatment.
These structures were found to accumulate in resistant ovarian cancer cells and activate genes that shield tumours from chemotherapy. Targeting them with specialised drugs re-sensitised the cells to treatment in lab studies.
Dr Marco Di Antonio, who led the research, said: “This is an exciting discovery. For over a decade, we’ve known that G-quadruplex DNA can form in the human genome, but this is the first time we’ve observed a direct functional response linked to their targeting—one that could be harnessed for therapeutic applications.”
Most women initially respond well to chemotherapy, but in 70% of cases the cancer returns and eventually stops responding to treatment. The new findings offer hope of restoring drug effectiveness in these patients.
Professor Iain McNeish added: “Thanks to this discovery we now know how alterations in the 3D structure of DNA can be a critical driver of chemotherapy resistance, providing new opportunities for patients.”
Marie-Claire Platt of Ovarian Cancer Action said: “This research offers real hope that we can make resistance a thing of the past and overcome one of the biggest challenges to transform survival rates.”
The team will now explore whether other cancers also use G-quadruplex structures to resist chemotherapy, with support from Ovarian Cancer Action, The Lister Institute and Cancer Research UK.
