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Updated: Dec 14, 2025

An Ex vivo Model to Study Hormone Action in the Human Breast
Published on: January 8, 2015
Endocrine Therapy for Breast Cancer: A Model of Hormonal Manipulation
Simon J Johnston1, Kwok-Leung Cheung2
1School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.
Abstract:
Oestrogen receptor (ER) is the driving transcription factor in 70% of breast cancer. Endocrine therapies targeting the ER represent one of the most successful anticancer strategies to date. In the clinic, novel targeted agents are now being exploited in combination with established endocrine therapies to maximise efficacy. However, clinicians must balance this gain against the risk to patients of increased side effects with combination therapies. This article provides a succinct outline of the principles of hormonal manipulation in breast cancer, alongside the key evidence that underpins current clinical practice. As the role of endocrine therapy in breast cancer continues to expand, the challenge is to interpret the data and select the optimal strategy for a given clinical scenario.
Insights
Hormonal manipulation targeting oestrogen receptor (ER) is key in treating most breast cancers. This review outlines endocrine therapy principles and evidence to guide optimal clinical strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Oestrogen receptor (ER) drives 70% of breast cancers.
- Endocrine therapies targeting ER are highly effective anticancer strategies.
- Novel targeted agents are increasingly combined with endocrine therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline principles of hormonal manipulation in breast cancer.
- To review key evidence underpinning current endocrine therapy clinical practice.
- To guide optimal strategy selection in evolving treatment landscapes.
Main Methods:
- Review of established endocrine therapy principles.
- Analysis of clinical evidence for current breast cancer treatment.
- Discussion of combination therapy benefits and risks.
Main Results:
- Endocrine therapies targeting ER are a cornerstone of breast cancer treatment.
- Combination therapies offer potential for maximized efficacy.
- Balancing efficacy gains against increased side effect risks is crucial.
Conclusions:
- Understanding hormonal manipulation is vital for breast cancer management.
- Interpreting clinical data is essential for selecting optimal endocrine therapy strategies.
- The role of endocrine therapy in breast cancer continues to expand, requiring careful consideration of treatment options.
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