Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 9, 2025

Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Emerging treatment approaches for triple-negative breast cancer
Maurizio Capuozzo1, Venere Celotto1, Mariachiara Santorsola2
1Pharmaceutical Department, ASL Napoli 3, Ercolano, 80056, Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Approximately, 15% of global breast cancer cases are diagnosed as triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), identified as the most aggressive subtype due to the simultaneous absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2. This characteristic renders TNBC highly aggressive and challenging to treat, as it excludes the use of effective drugs such as hormone therapy and anti-HER2 agents. In this review, we explore standard therapies and recent emerging approaches for TNBC, including PARP inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitors, and cytotoxin-conjugated antibodies. The mechanism of action of these drugs and their utilization in clinical practice is explained in a pragmatic and prospective manner, contextualized within the current landscape of standard therapies for this pathology. These advancements present a promising frontier for tailored interventions with the potential to significantly improve outcomes for TNBC patients. Interestingly, while TNBC poses a complex challenge, it also serves as a paradigm and an opportunity for translational research and innovative therapies in the field of oncology.
Insights
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is aggressive and lacks targeted therapies. This review explores emerging treatments like PARP inhibitors and immunotherapy, offering new hope for TNBC patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Research
Background:
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15% of global cases.
- TNBC is the most aggressive subtype due to the absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2.
- This profile limits treatment options, excluding hormone and anti-HER2 therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review standard and emerging therapies for TNBC.
- To explain the mechanisms and clinical applications of novel treatments.
- To contextualize these advancements within current TNBC treatment paradigms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of standard and emerging TNBC therapies.
- Exploration of drug mechanisms of action.
- Analysis of clinical utilization and future prospects.
Main Results:
- Standard therapies are limited for TNBC.
- Emerging approaches include PARP inhibitors, immune checkpoint inhibitors, PI3K/AKT pathway inhibitors, and antibody-drug conjugates.
- These therapies offer promising avenues for tailored interventions.
Conclusions:
- TNBC presents a significant challenge in oncology.
- Emerging therapies show potential to improve patient outcomes.
- TNBC serves as a model for translational research and innovative oncology treatments.
Related Concept Videos
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against...
Treatment Resistant Cancers
Tumor Immunotherapy
Combination Therapies and Personalized Medicine
The combination of the drug acetazolamide and sulforaphane is a good example of combination therapy to treat cancer. The cells in the interior of a large tumor often die due to the hypoxic and...
Cancer Therapies
However, cancer treatments can pose several challenges, as therapies used to kill cancer cells are generally also toxic to normal cells. Moreover, cancer cells mutate rapidly and can develop resistance to chemical agents or radiation therapy. Besides, all types of cancer cells may not respond to the same therapy. Some cancer cells respond to one...

