Molecular profiling for breast cancer: a comprehensive review
Muaiad Kittaneh1, Alberto J Montero, Stefan Glück
1Center for Translational Therapeutics, Karmanos Cancer Institute, Detroit, MI, USA.
Biomarkers in Cancer
|November 20, 2013
Summary
Genomic advances are transforming breast cancer care, offering new molecular tests for risk assessment. These innovations may soon become standard practice for early-stage patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Recent advances in molecular biology and genomics have significantly impacted breast cancer diagnostics and therapeutics.
- Genomics has redefined breast cancer into distinct molecular subtypes, altering traditional understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the strengths and limitations of current molecular tests for breast cancer.
- To discuss the impact of genomic advancements on breast cancer diagnostics and treatment selection.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on molecular assays for breast cancer.
- Analysis of commercially available polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and microarray tests.
Main Results:
- Molecular tests are changing how oncologists assess recurrence risk in early-stage breast cancer.
- The genomics era is shifting the paradigm for selecting patients for adjuvant chemotherapy.
Conclusions:
- Prospective studies are evaluating molecular assays for integration into standard clinical practice.
- Understanding the strengths and limitations of these tests is crucial for optimal breast cancer management.
