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PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer
Chunfang Hao1, Yunchu Wei2, Wenjing Meng3
1Tianjin Medical University Cancer Institute and Hospital, Tianjin, China; Tianjin Cancer Hospital Airport Hospital, Tianjin, China; National Clinical Research Center for Cancer, Tianjin, China.
Abstract:
Dysregulation of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway plays a pivotal role in the development and progression of various cancers. In hormone receptor-positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HER2-) advanced breast cancer, aberrations in this pathway are increasingly recognized as key drivers of resistance to endocrine therapy and cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 (CDK4/6) inhibitors, the first-line treatments for this disease subtype. Recognizing the urgent need for alternative therapeutic strategies, significant advancements have been made in developing PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for HR+ advanced/metastatic breast cancer. Among these inhibitors, capivasertib and alpelisib have received approval as targeted therapies for this indication. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the latest developments in PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for HR+ breast cancer. It also delves into different aspects, including sampling, testing method and timing, of PI3K/AKT/mTOR diagnostic testing. Additionally, the review discusses key considerations for integrating these inhibitors into clinical practice, such as timing and choice of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors, and management of treatment toxicities. By examining these different aspects, this review aims to provide valuable insights into optimizing the clinical utility of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors in HR+ advanced breast cancer.
Insights
Targeted therapies inhibiting the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway offer new hope for hormone receptor-positive advanced breast cancer. This review details their use, diagnostics, and clinical integration for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- The phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K/AKT/mTOR) pathway is crucial in cancer development.
- Aberrations in this pathway drive resistance to standard therapies in hormone receptor-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative (HR+/HER2-) advanced breast cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the latest advancements in PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for HR+ advanced breast cancer.
- To discuss diagnostic testing for PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway aberrations.
- To provide insights into clinical integration and toxicity management of these targeted therapies.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors in HR+ advanced breast cancer.
- Analysis of diagnostic testing methodologies and clinical trial data.
- Synthesis of information on therapeutic strategies and patient management.
Main Results:
- Capivasertib and alpelisib are approved PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors for HR+ advanced breast cancer.
- Understanding PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway dysregulation is key to overcoming treatment resistance.
- Optimized diagnostic testing and clinical integration are essential for effective use.
Conclusions:
- PI3K/AKT/mTOR inhibitors represent a significant therapeutic advancement for HR+ advanced breast cancer.
- Careful consideration of diagnostic testing, inhibitor choice, and toxicity management is vital for successful clinical application.
- Further research and clinical experience will refine the role of these targeted agents.
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