Targeting the androgen receptor in triple-negative breast cancer: current perspectives

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive with limited targeted therapy options.
• Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is implicated in breast cancer development and progression.
• A subset of TNBC exhibits enrichment for AR signaling.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the therapeutic potential of targeting androgen signaling in TNBC.
• To review recent advances in understanding AR signaling in TNBC.
• To highlight the need for biomarkers to guide AR inhibitor therapy.

Main Methods:

• Review of gene expression studies identifying AR-enriched TNBC.
• Analysis of preclinical and early clinical data on AR inhibitors in TNBC.
• Examination of emerging understanding of AR signaling pathways and interactions.

Main Results:

• AR signaling interference demonstrates antitumorigenic activity in TNBC models.
• Novel AR-targeting agents are advancing to next-generation clinical trials.
• Biomarker identification is crucial for patient selection in AR inhibitor trials.

Conclusions:

• Targeting AR signaling represents a promising therapeutic strategy for a subset of TNBC.
• Further research into AR pathways and biomarkers will refine treatment approaches.
• Development of AR inhibitors and companion diagnostics is advancing TNBC treatment.