Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 9, 2026

Optimization of a Multiplex RNA-based Expression Assay Using Breast Cancer Archival Material
Published on: August 1, 2018
Apocrine carcinoma of the breast: A brief update on the molecular features and targetable biomarkers
Semir Vranic1, Rebecca Feldman, Zoran Gatalica
1Department of Pathology, University of Sarajevo Clinical Center. semir.vranic@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Apocrine carcinoma of the breast is a rare, primary breast cancer characterized by the apocrine morphology, estrogen receptor-negative and androgen receptor-positive profile with a frequent overexpression of Her-2/neu protein (~30%). Apart from the Her-2/neu target, advanced and/or metastatic apocrine carcinomas have limited treatment options. In this review, we briefly describe and discuss the molecular features and new theranostic biomarkers for this rare mammary malignancy. The importance of comprehensive profiling is highlighted due to synergistic and potentially antagonistic molecular events in the individual patients.
Insights
Apocrine breast cancer is rare and typically Her-2/neu positive. This review discusses its molecular traits and new biomarkers for advanced disease, emphasizing personalized treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Biomarkers
Background:
- Apocrine carcinoma of the breast is a rare malignancy.
- It exhibits distinct molecular features: estrogen receptor-negative, androgen receptor-positive, and frequent Her-2/neu overexpression (~30%).
- Limited treatment options exist for advanced or metastatic stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the molecular characteristics of apocrine breast cancer.
- To discuss emerging theranostic biomarkers for this rare cancer.
- To highlight the significance of comprehensive molecular profiling for personalized treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of apocrine breast cancer.
- Analysis of molecular features and biomarker data.
- Discussion of current and future therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Apocrine carcinoma presents a unique receptor profile.
- Her-2/neu is a common target, but other pathways are implicated.
- Synergistic and antagonistic molecular events can influence treatment response.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the molecular landscape of apocrine breast cancer is crucial.
- Novel theranostic biomarkers offer potential for targeted therapies.
- Comprehensive profiling is essential for tailoring treatment to individual patients.
More Related Videos
07:13Initiation of Metastatic Breast Carcinoma by Targeting of the Ductal Epithelium with Adenovirus-Cre: A Novel Transgenic Mouse Model of Breast Cancer
Published on: March 26, 2014
10:27Testing Targeted Therapies in Cancer using Structural DNA Alteration Analysis and Patient-Derived Xenografts
Published on: July 25, 2020
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Tumor Progression
Colon cancer is one of the best-documented examples of tumor progression. Early mutation in the APC gene in colon cells causes a small growth on the colon wall called a polyp. With time, this polyp grows into a benign, pre-cancerous tumor. Further...
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
mTOR Signaling and Cancer Progression
The mTOR pathway or the...