Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 16, 2026
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
What is the difference between triple-negative and basal breast cancers?
Melanie D Seal1, Stephen K Chia
1Department of Medical Oncology, BC Cancer Agency, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada.
Abstract:
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents a phenotype defined by the lack of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and human epidermal growth factor receptor-2 expression. Because TNBCs have more aggressive features and lack a therapeutic target, they have become a key topic of clinical and research interest within the oncology community. With advancements in the field of molecular biology, gene expression profiling has resulted in the identification of intrinsic subtypes including basal-like breast cancers (BLBCs). Although often thought to be synonymous, TNBC and BLBC represent different biologic phenomena. Furthermore, even within the basal-like subtype, diversity exists. The purpose of this review is to outline the most current evidence in an attempt to answer the question: what is BLBC?
Insights
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks key receptors, driving research interest. Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is a distinct subtype, not synonymous with TNBC, with ongoing research into its diversity.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by the absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2 expression.
- TNBC exhibits aggressive behavior and lacks targeted therapies, making it a critical research focus.
- Gene expression profiling has identified intrinsic breast cancer subtypes, including basal-like breast cancer (BLBC).
Purpose of the Study:
- To clarify the biological definition and characteristics of basal-like breast cancer (BLBC).
- To differentiate BLBC from the broader triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) phenotype.
- To review current evidence regarding the diversity within the BLBC subtype.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current scientific evidence.
- Analysis of gene expression profiling data.
- Comparison of TNBC and BLBC phenotypes.
Main Results:
- TNBC and BLBC are distinct biological entities, not interchangeable terms.
- BLBC represents an intrinsic subtype identified through gene expression profiling.
- Significant heterogeneity exists within the BLBC subtype.
Conclusions:
- Basal-like breast cancer (BLBC) is a specific molecular subtype with unique biological characteristics.
- Distinguishing BLBC from TNBC is crucial for understanding breast cancer biology and developing targeted treatments.
- Further research is needed to explore the diversity within BLBC for personalized therapeutic strategies.
