Advances in the role of long non‑coding RNAs and RNA‑binding proteins in regulating DNA damage repair in cancer cells.

DNA damage and repair play a crucial role in the development, progression and treatment of cancer. In response to various types of DNA damage, the organism initiates a series of DNA damage responses that trigger post‑DNA damage repair processes. Among the most severe forms of DNA damage are DNA double‑strand breaks (DSBs), which can be repaired by the body through two pathways: Homologous recombination and non‑homologous end joining. The repair of DNA damage, particularly DNA DSBs, significantly influences the sensitivity and resistance of cancer cells to chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Numerous studies have demonstrated that long non‑coding RNAs (lncRNAs) can exert multiple regulatory effects on cancer cells by binding to RNA binding proteins (RBPs), thereby influencing DNA damage repair. Based on a comprehensive literature search, the existing research on the regulation of DNA damage repair by lncRNAs interacting with RBPs has primarily focused on the repair of DNA DSBs. Therefore, the present review discusses the regulatory effects of the interaction between lncRNAs and RBPs on DNA damage repair in cancer cells, with a specific focus on the repair of DNA DSBs and its implications in cancer. It is hoped that comprehensive analysis may enhance the current understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying DNA damage repair in cancer and may lead to the identification of novel diagnostic biomarkers and potential therapeutic targets.