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Advancements in Human Breast Cancer Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Mayassa J Bou-Dargham1, Sophia Draughon1, Vance Cantrell1
1Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, Florida State University, Tallahassee, Florida, United States of America.
Abstract:
Human breast cancer treatment regimens have evolved greatly due to the significant advances in understanding the molecular mechanisms and pathways of the common subtypes of breast cancer. In this review, we discuss recent progress in breast cancer targeted therapy and immunotherapy as well as ongoing clinical trials. We also highlight the potential of combination therapies and personalized approaches to improve clinical outcomes. Targeted therapies have surpassed the hormone receptors and the human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) to include many other molecules in targetable pathways such as the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), poly (adenosine diphosphate-ribose) polymerase (PARP), and cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6). However, resistance to targeted therapy persists, underpinning the need for more efficacious therapies. Immunotherapy is considered a milestone in breast cancer treatments, including the engineered immune cells (CAR-T cell therapy) to better target the tumor cells, vaccines to stimulate the patient's immune system against tumor antigens, and checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1, PD-L1, and CTLA4) to block molecules that mediate immune inhibition. Targeted therapies and immunotherapy tested in breast cancer clinical trials are discussed here, with special emphasis on combinatorial approaches which are believed to maximize treatment efficacy and enhance patient survival.
Insights
Recent advances in breast cancer treatment include targeted therapies and immunotherapies. Combination approaches show promise for improving patient outcomes and overcoming treatment resistance.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Breast cancer treatment has advanced significantly due to a deeper understanding of its molecular mechanisms.
- Current treatment strategies are evolving beyond traditional hormone receptors and HER2-targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in targeted therapy and immunotherapy for breast cancer.
- To discuss ongoing clinical trials and the potential of combination and personalized approaches.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on breast cancer targeted therapies and immunotherapies.
- Analysis of ongoing clinical trials investigating novel treatment strategies.
- Highlighting advancements in molecular targets and immune-modulating agents.
Main Results:
- Targeted therapies now encompass a broader range of molecules beyond hormone receptors and HER2, including EGFR, PARP, and CDK4/6 inhibitors.
- Immunotherapy has emerged as a significant advancement, with approaches like CAR-T cell therapy, vaccines, and checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1, PD-L1, CTLA4).
- Resistance to targeted therapies remains a challenge, emphasizing the need for more effective treatments.
Conclusions:
- Combination therapies and personalized medicine hold significant potential to improve clinical outcomes in breast cancer.
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are key areas of ongoing research and clinical trials.
- Further research into combinatorial approaches is crucial for maximizing treatment efficacy and enhancing patient survival.
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