Genomically Guided Breast Radiation Therapy: A Review of the Current Data and Future Directions

To highlight the current evidence and the limitations in data to support a personalized approach in breast oncology radiation therapy management and define steps needed for clinical implementation.

A critical review of the current literature on the use of genomics in breast radiation therapy was undertaken by a group of breast radiation oncologists to discuss current data, future directions, and challenges.

A summary of the existing data, ongoing clinical trials, and future directions is provided. The authors note many groups have developed radiation-specific genomic assays, which demonstrate promise in prediction of local control and benefit from radiation therapy; however, prospective validation of their utility is needed. Limitations continue to exist in our understanding of tumor biology and how it can be integrated into clinical practice.

Given the relative ubiquity of breast radiation therapy, the variety of dose and fractionation approaches, and the current data to support a personalized approach, it is our belief that the delivery of breast radiation therapy is uniquely poised for a genomically personalized radiation therapy approach. Prospective clinical trials implementing genomic signatures are needed at this time to advance the field.