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Updated: Feb 13, 2026
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Molecular Mechanisms and Emerging Therapeutic Targets of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Metastasis
Christiana Neophytou1, Panagiotis Boutsikos2, Panagiotis Papageorgis2
1Department of Biological Sciences, School of Pure and Applied Sciences, University of Cyprus, Nicosia, Cyprus.
Abstract:
Breast cancer represents a highly heterogeneous disease comprised by several subtypes with distinct histological features, underlying molecular etiology and clinical behaviors. It is widely accepted that triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most aggressive subtypes, often associated with poor patient outcome due to the development of metastases in secondary organs, such as the lungs, brain, and bone. The molecular complexity of the metastatic process in combination with the lack of effective targeted therapies for TNBC metastasis have fostered significant research efforts during the past few years to identify molecular "drivers" of this lethal cascade. In this review, the most current and important findings on TNBC metastasis, as well as its closely associated basal-like subtype, including metastasis-promoting or suppressor genes and aberrantly regulated signaling pathways at specific stages of the metastatic cascade are being discussed. Finally, the most promising therapeutic approaches and novel strategies emerging from these molecular targets that could potentially be clinically applied in the near future are being highlighted.
Insights
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive, often metastasizing to distant organs. This review discusses key molecular drivers and therapeutic strategies for TNBC metastasis, offering hope for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with distinct subtypes.
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is particularly aggressive, characterized by high rates of metastasis and poor patient prognosis.
- Metastasis in TNBC often involves secondary organ colonization (lungs, brain, bone).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current findings on the molecular mechanisms driving TNBC metastasis.
- To discuss metastasis-promoting and suppressor genes in TNBC and its basal-like subtype.
- To highlight emerging therapeutic targets and strategies for clinical application.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent research on TNBC metastasis.
- Analysis of molecular drivers and signaling pathways involved in the metastatic cascade.
- Identification of potential therapeutic targets and novel treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- Identified key genes and signaling pathways implicated in TNBC metastasis.
- Discussed the role of specific molecular alterations in metastasis to secondary organs.
- Highlighted promising therapeutic avenues based on identified molecular targets.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the molecular complexity of TNBC metastasis is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Targeted therapies based on identified molecular drivers hold promise for improving outcomes in TNBC patients.
- Further research into metastasis-suppressing genes and pathways may reveal novel therapeutic strategies.
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