Therapeutic landscape in mutational triple negative breast cancer
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Updated: Feb 7, 2026

Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Yaqin Shi1, Juan Jin1, Wenfei Ji2
1Department of Medical Oncology, Jinling Hospital, Medical School of Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210002, China.
Abstract:
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease with aggressive behavior and poor prognosis. Genomic sequencing has detected a distinctive mutational portrait of both the germline and somatic alterations in TNBC, which is staggeringly different from other breast cancer subtypes. The clinical utility of sequencing germline BRCA1/2 genes has been well established in TNBC. However, for other predisposition genes, studies concerning the risk and penetrance to TNBC are relatively scarce. Very few recurrent mutations, including TP53 and PI3KCA mutations, together with a long tail of individually rare mutations occur in TNBC. These combined effects of genomic alterations drive TNBC progression. Given the complexity and heterogeneity of TNBC, clinical interpretation of the genomic alterations in TNBC may pave a new way for the treatment of TNBC. In this review, we summarized the germline and somatic mutation profiles of TNBC and discussed the current and upcoming therapeutic strategies targeting the mutant proteins or pathways to enable tailored-therapeutics.
Insights
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) exhibits unique genomic alterations. Understanding these mutations, including germline and somatic, offers new avenues for targeted therapies and improved treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genomics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with poor prognosis.
- TNBC presents a distinct genomic landscape compared to other breast cancer types.
- While BRCA1/2 germline mutations are clinically relevant, other hereditary cancer predisposition genes in TNBC remain understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the germline and somatic mutation profiles specific to TNBC.
- To discuss the clinical utility of genomic alterations in TNBC.
- To explore current and emerging therapeutic strategies targeting TNBC mutations.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive review of existing literature on TNBC genomics.
- Analysis of germline and somatic mutation data in TNBC.
- Synthesis of information on targeted therapies for TNBC.
Main Results:
- TNBC is characterized by a unique mutational portrait, differing significantly from other breast cancers.
- Recurrent mutations in TP53 and PI3KCA are observed, alongside numerous rare mutations.
- Genomic alterations collectively drive TNBC progression.
Conclusions:
- The heterogeneity of TNBC necessitates a deep understanding of its genomic alterations.
- Clinical interpretation of TNBC genomic data is crucial for developing tailored therapeutics.
- Targeting specific mutant proteins and pathways holds promise for advancing TNBC treatment.
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