Highlights on molecular targets for radiosensitization of breast cancer cells: Current research status and prospects

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Radiation Oncology
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Historically, identifying molecular targets to improve radiotherapy sensitization in malignant tumors has yielded limited success.
• Breast cancer radiotherapy remains a critical treatment modality, necessitating advancements in radiosensitization strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review research on breast cancer irradiation sensitization molecular targets over the past two decades.
• To synthesize findings related to DNA damage repair, cell cycle regulation, and autophagy in the context of radiation sensitization.
• To discuss the role of radiation sensitivity prediction in optimizing breast cancer radiotherapy schemes.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of research published over the last 20 years.
• Focus on studies investigating molecular targets for enhancing breast cancer radiosensitivity.
• Analysis of research concerning DNA damage repair, cell cycle, and autophagy pathways.

Main Results:

• Key molecular targets influencing DNA damage repair and radiosensitivity have been identified.
• The role of cell cycle checkpoints and regulatory mechanisms in modulating radiation response is highlighted.
• Autophagy's complex role in breast cancer radiosensitivity, acting as both a protective and sensitizing factor, is discussed.
• Advances in predicting radiation sensitivity offer potential for personalized radiotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Targeting DNA repair pathways, cell cycle regulation, and autophagy holds promise for improving breast cancer radiotherapy efficacy.
• Personalized radiotherapy schemes based on predicted radiation sensitivity can optimize treatment outcomes.
• Further research is needed to translate these molecular insights into clinical applications for breast cancer patients.