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Published on: June 30, 2023
Targeting autophagy in breast cancer
Paola Maycotte1, Andrew Thorburn1
1Paola Maycotte, Andrew Thorburn, Department of Pharmacology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, United States.
Abstract:
Macroautophagy (referred to as autophagy here) is an intracellular degradation pathway enhanced in response to a variety of stresses and in response to nutrient deprivation. This process provides the cell with nutrients and energy by degrading aggregated and damaged proteins as well as compromised organelles. Since autophagy has been linked to diverse diseases including cancer, it has recently become a very interesting target in breast cancer treatment. Indeed, current clinical trials are trying to use chloroquine or hydroxychloroquine, alone or in combination with other drugs to inhibit autophagy during breast cancer therapy since chemotherapy and radiation, regimens that are used to treat breast cancer, are known to induce autophagy in cancer cells. Importantly, in breast cancer, autophagy has been involved in the development of resistance to chemotherapy and to anti-estrogens. Moreover, a close relationship has recently been described between autophagy and the HER2 receptor. Here, we discuss some of the recent findings relating autophagy and cancer with a particular focus on breast cancer therapy.
Insights
Macroautophagy, a cellular process, is crucial in cancer, particularly breast cancer. Inhibiting autophagy shows promise in overcoming treatment resistance and targeting cancer cells.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Oncology
- Molecular Medicine
Background:
- Macroautophagy (autophagy) is an intracellular degradation pathway vital for cellular homeostasis, activated by stress and nutrient deprivation.
- Autophagy degrades damaged proteins and organelles, supplying cells with nutrients and energy.
- Dysregulation of autophagy is implicated in various diseases, including cancer, making it a therapeutic target.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent findings on the role of autophagy in cancer, with a specific focus on breast cancer therapy.
- To highlight the connection between autophagy and resistance to breast cancer treatments.
- To discuss the emerging relationship between autophagy and the HER2 receptor in breast cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent scientific findings and clinical trials.
- Analysis of the role of autophagy in cancer development and progression.
- Focus on therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy in breast cancer.
Main Results:
- Autophagy is induced by common breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation.
- Autophagy contributes to resistance against chemotherapy and anti-estrogen therapies in breast cancer.
- A significant link has been identified between autophagy and the HER2 receptor in breast cancer.
Conclusions:
- Inhibiting autophagy is a promising therapeutic strategy for breast cancer treatment.
- Targeting autophagy may help overcome treatment resistance and improve patient outcomes.
- Further research into the autophagy-HER2 axis could reveal novel therapeutic approaches for breast cancer.
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