Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 15, 2026

Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Harnessing a Different Dependency: How to Identify and Target Androgen Receptor-Positive Versus Quadruple-Negative
Jessica L Christenson1, Jane B Trepel2, Haythem Y Ali3
1Department of Pathology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA.
Abstract:
The androgen receptor (AR) is a promising therapeutic target for a subset of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs) in which AR is expressed. However, the mechanistic action of AR and the degree to which primary and metastatic tumors depend on AR, both before and after conventional treatment, remain to be defined. We discuss preclinical and clinical data for AR+ TNBC, the difficulties in monitoring AR protein levels, new methods for determining AR status, the influence of AR on "stemness" in the context of TNBC, the role of combined inhibition of sex steroid production and AR, and the role of AR in regulation of the immune system. Although the exact role of AR in subsets of TNBC is still being characterized, new therapies that target AR and the production of androgens may provide additional options for patients with TNBC for whom chemotherapy is currently the sole treatment option.
Insights
Androgen receptor (AR) targeted therapies show promise for a subset of triple-negative breast cancers (TNBCs). Further research is defining AR
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) lacks targeted therapies, with chemotherapy as the primary treatment.
- The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed in a subset of TNBCs, suggesting it as a potential therapeutic target.
- The precise role and dependency of TNBC on AR, especially after treatment, require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review preclinical and clinical data on AR-positive (AR+) TNBC.
- To explore the influence of AR on cancer stemness and immune regulation in TNBC.
- To discuss challenges in AR detection and novel therapeutic strategies targeting AR and androgen production.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing preclinical and clinical studies on AR+ TNBC.
- Discussion of emerging methods for assessing AR status.
- Analysis of AR's role in stemness, immune response, and therapeutic resistance.
Main Results:
- AR plays a multifaceted role in AR+ TNBC, influencing stemness and immune evasion.
- Monitoring AR protein levels presents challenges, necessitating improved detection methods.
- Combined inhibition of androgen production and AR signaling is a potential therapeutic avenue.
Conclusions:
- Targeting AR and androgen production offers a promising alternative or addition to chemotherapy for select TNBC patients.
- Further characterization of AR's mechanisms in TNBC is crucial for optimizing treatment strategies.
- New therapies targeting AR may expand treatment options for patients with limited alternatives.
Related Concept Videos
Positive, Negative, and Zero Work
Positive and Negative Feedback Loops
Internal Receptors
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Design Example: Identifying the Locations of Monuments in the Field Using Global Positioning System Device
Frequency-dependent Selection

