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Updated: Jan 22, 2026
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
[Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer Syndrome]
Mayuko Inuzuka1, Seigo Nakamura
1Breast Center, Showa University Hospital.
Abstract:
Recently, olaparib(brand name: Lynparza Tablets)-a PARP inhibitor-has been approved for national health insurance coverage in Japan as a drug for unresectable or recurrent, BRCA1/2-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer in patients with a history of cancer chemotherapy. The addition of BRCA1/2 genetic testing as a companion diagnostic tool to the health insurance coverage is of considerable significance as a spearhead of health insurance medical care for all different types of hereditary tumors. However, several problems related to this companion diagnostic test have emerged, including the estab- lishment of a genetic counseling system and handling of BRCA1/2 genetic tests performed at the patients' own expense. In addition, the purpose of the companion diagnostic test is to confirm drug indication in a case. However, since the test results include the diagnosis of hereditary tumors, there is also an urgent need to improve the medical care system and social environment for family members of patients with pathological mutations. The use of genetic analysis is widespread in the clinical settings, and genetic medical care is anticipated to advance in the future. Therefore, it would be pivotal to come up with measures against hereditary tumors, such as hereditary breast and ovarian cancer(HBOC)syndrome. In this chapter, we describe the current status and prospects of HBOC medical care, with a particular focus on companion diagnostics.
Insights
Olaparib is now covered by Japanese national health insurance for BRCA1/2-positive breast cancer, highlighting the importance of companion diagnostics. This advancement necessitates improved genetic counseling and support systems for hereditary cancer patients and their families.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Olaparib (Lynparza Tablets), a PARP inhibitor, is now covered by Japanese national health insurance for specific breast cancer cases.
- BRCA1/2 genetic testing is now integrated as a companion diagnostic, marking a significant step for hereditary cancer care.
- The expansion of insurance coverage signifies a broader move towards personalized medicine for hereditary tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the implications of olaparib's insurance coverage and the role of BRCA1/2 companion diagnostics in Japan.
- To highlight challenges and areas for improvement in the implementation of genetic testing and counseling.
- To explore the future of hereditary cancer management, focusing on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Review of current Japanese national health insurance policies regarding olaparib and BRCA1/2 testing.
- Analysis of the significance of companion diagnostics in cancer treatment indication.
- Discussion of the need for enhanced medical and social support systems for hereditary cancer patients and their families.
Main Results:
- National health insurance coverage for olaparib in Japan for unresectable or recurrent, BRCA1/2-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer.
- Recognition of BRCA1/2 genetic testing as a crucial companion diagnostic tool.
- Identification of challenges including the need for robust genetic counseling systems and patient-funded testing protocols.
Conclusions:
- The integration of companion diagnostics like BRCA1/2 testing is pivotal for advancing hereditary cancer care.
- Addressing issues in genetic counseling and support systems is crucial for maximizing the benefits of targeted therapies.
- Future efforts should focus on comprehensive strategies for hereditary tumors, such as HBOC syndrome, to improve patient outcomes and family support.
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