[Genome-wide expression profiling as a clinical tool: are we there yet?]

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Molecular Biology

Context:

• Breast cancer classification relies on histopathology, with limited prognostic and predictive biomarkers.
• High-throughput molecular technologies, especially gene expression profiling, are revolutionizing breast cancer research.
• Existing molecular signatures show promise but require further validation for clinical integration.

Purpose:

• To review the contribution of gene expression profiling to understanding breast cancer biology and clinical management.
• To discuss the challenges and future directions for incorporating gene expression classifiers into clinical practice.
• To highlight the potential of molecular taxonomy in improving breast cancer treatment decision-making.

Summary:

• Gene expression profiling has identified a molecular taxonomy for breast cancer, revealing disease biology insights.
• Numerous prognostic and predictive signatures have been derived from microarray data.
• Most current signatures demonstrate effectiveness primarily in estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer.

Impact:

• Gene expression profiling enhances our understanding of breast cancer's molecular heterogeneity.
• Development of novel prognostic and predictive signatures promises to improve clinical decision-making.
• Further research is needed to translate gene expression classifiers into routine clinical practice for broader patient benefit.