Tumor treating fields can effectively overcome trastuzumab resistant breast cancer multiplication

Jin Su Kim1, Jae Min Cho2, Hyeongi Kim1

  • 1Division of RI Application, Korea Institute of Radiological and Medical Sciences (KIRAMS) 75 Nowon-ro, Nowon-gu, Seoul 01812, Republic of Korea.

Insights

Combining Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) with Trastuzumab (TRZ) overcomes resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer. TTFields therapy sensitizes HER2 genes, enhancing TRZ effectiveness and inducing apoptosis for improved treatment outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Biotechnology
  • Medical Physics

Background:

  • Human Epidermal Growth Receptor 2 (HER2) positive breast cancer affects 15-20% of women.
  • Trastuzumab (TRZ) is a key treatment, but resistance develops in advanced stages.
  • Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields) offer a novel therapeutic approach.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the synergistic effects of TTFields and TRZ on HER2-positive breast cancer.
  • To investigate the mechanism by which TTFields sensitizes HER2 genes to TRZ.
  • To assess the efficacy of combined TTFields and TRZ therapy in overcoming TRZ resistance.

Main Methods:

  • In vitro and in vivo studies using BT474 cells.
  • Application of TTFields to generate electromagnetic fields and manipulate HER2 gene structure.
  • Assessment of cell viability using Tryptan blue and Crystal violet staining.
  • Confirmation of receptor presence via Western Blot and Immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Main Results:

  • TTFields therapy successfully sensitized HER2 genes to Trastuzumab.
  • The combination therapy demonstrated enhanced TRZ penetration and efficacy.
  • TTFields induced apoptosis, overcoming TRZ resistance in HER2-positive breast cancer models.
  • Western Blot and IHC confirmed target engagement and receptor status.

Conclusions:

  • Combined TTFields and TRZ therapy is a promising strategy for HER2-positive breast cancer.
  • TTFields enhance TRZ efficacy by overcoming treatment resistance.
  • This combination therapy holds potential for future cancer treatment ventures.

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