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The Biological Roles and Clinical Applications of the PI3K/AKT Pathway in Targeted Therapy Resistance in
Hanyi Zhong1, Ziling Zhou1, Han Wang1
1Department of General Surgery, Comprehensive Breast Health Center, Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China.
Abstract:
Epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer (HER2+ BC) is a highly invasive and malignant type of tumor. Due to its resistance to HER2-targeted therapy, HER2+ BC has a poor prognosis and a tendency for metastasis. Understanding the mechanisms underlying this resistance and developing effective treatments for HER2+ BC are major research challenges. The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway, which is frequently altered in cancers, plays a critical role in cellular proliferation and drug resistance. This signaling pathway activates various downstream pathways and exhibits complex interactions with other signaling networks. Given the significance of the PI3K/AKT pathway in HER2+ BC, several targeted drugs are currently in development. Multiple drugs have entered clinical trials or gained market approval, bringing new hope for HER2+ BC therapy. However, new drugs and therapies raise concerns related to safety, regulation, and ethics. Populations of different races and disease statuses exhibit varying responses to treatments. Therefore, in this review, we summarize current knowledge on the alteration and biological roles of the PI3K/AKT pathway, as well as its clinical applications and perspectives, providing new insights for advancing targeted therapies in HER2+ BC.
Insights
Epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer (HER2+) shows resistance to therapy. Targeting the phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway offers new hope for treating this aggressive cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- HER2-positive breast cancer (HER2+ BC) is aggressive and resistant to HER2-targeted therapy.
- The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/protein kinase B (PI3K/AKT) pathway is crucial in cancer proliferation and drug resistance.
- Understanding PI3K/AKT pathway alterations is key to overcoming HER2+ BC treatment challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the PI3K/AKT pathway's role in HER2+ BC.
- To explore current and emerging targeted therapies for HER2+ BC.
- To provide insights into advancing treatment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications.
- Analysis of PI3K/AKT pathway alterations in HER2+ BC.
- Examination of clinical trial data and approved therapies.
Main Results:
- The PI3K/AKT pathway is frequently altered in HER2+ BC, contributing to drug resistance.
- Several PI3K/AKT targeted drugs are in development, clinical trials, or approved.
- Varied patient responses highlight the need for personalized treatment approaches.
Conclusions:
- Targeting the PI3K/AKT pathway presents a promising strategy for HER2+ BC treatment.
- Further research is needed to address safety, regulatory, and ethical considerations.
- Personalized medicine approaches are essential for optimizing therapeutic outcomes in diverse patient populations.
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