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Updated: Dec 28, 2025
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Tumor microenvironment: Challenges and opportunities in targeting metastasis of triple negative breast cancer
K G K Deepak1, Rahul Vempati1, Ganji Purnachandra Nagaraju2
1Cancer Biology Lab, Department of Biochemistry and Bioinformatics, Institute of Science, GITAM (Deemed to be University), Visakhapatnam, 530045, India.
Abstract:
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is most aggressive subtype of breast cancers with high probability of metastasis as well as lack of specific targets and targeted therapeutics. TNBC is characterized with unique tumor microenvironment (TME), which differs from other subtypes. TME is associated with induction of proliferation, angiogenesis, inhibition of apoptosis and immune system suppression, and drug resistance. Exosomes are promising nanovesicles, which orchestrate the TME by communicating with different cells within TME. The components of TME including transformed ECM, soluble factors, immune suppressive cells, epigenetic modifications and re-programmed fibroblasts together hamper antitumor response and helps progression and metastasis of TNBCs. Therefore, TME could be a therapeutic target of TNBC. The current review presents latest updates on the role of exosomes in modulation of TME, approaches for targeting TME and combination of immune checkpoint inhibitors and target chemotherapeutics. Finally, we also discussed various phytochemicals that alter genetic, transcriptomic and proteomic profiles of TME along with current challenges and future implications. Thus, as TME is associated with the hallmarks of TNBC, the understanding of the impact of different components can improve the clinical benefits of TNBC patients.
Insights
Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive, lacking targets. This review explores exosomes and the tumor microenvironment (TME) as therapeutic targets for TNBC, discussing phytochemicals and combination therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype characterized by a unique tumor microenvironment (TME).
- The TME in TNBC promotes proliferation, angiogenesis, immune suppression, and drug resistance, hindering effective treatment.
- Exosomes play a crucial role in mediating intercellular communication within the TME, influencing TNBC progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the latest advancements in understanding the role of exosomes in modulating the TNBC TME.
- To explore therapeutic strategies targeting the TME in TNBC.
- To discuss the potential of phytochemicals and combination therapies for TNBC treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on exosomes, TME, and TNBC therapeutics.
- Analysis of the mechanisms by which TME components influence TNBC progression.
- Evaluation of emerging therapeutic approaches including phytochemicals and immune checkpoint inhibitors.
Main Results:
- Exosomes are key regulators of the TNBC TME, influencing its cellular and molecular components.
- Targeting the TME, including its extracellular matrix, soluble factors, and cellular players, presents a promising therapeutic avenue.
- Phytochemicals demonstrate potential in altering the genetic, transcriptomic, and proteomic profiles of the TME.
Conclusions:
- The TME is a critical therapeutic target for triple negative breast cancer.
- Understanding exosome-mediated communication within the TME is vital for developing novel treatment strategies.
- Combination therapies involving targeted agents, immune checkpoint inhibitors, and phytochemicals may improve clinical outcomes for TNBC patients.
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