Advances in Targeting Neutrophil Extracellular Traps as a Promising Approach for Breast Cancer Treatment

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Immunology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Neutrophils release neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), complex structures of DNA, histones, and antimicrobial peptides.
• Key NET components like neutrophil elastase (NE) and histones are implicated in breast cancer invasion and metastasis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the mechanisms by which NETs contribute to breast cancer progression, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance.
• To explore potential therapeutic strategies targeting NETs for improved breast cancer treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating the role of NETs in breast cancer.
• Analysis of mechanisms including epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), extracellular matrix remodeling, and immune microenvironment modulation.
• Evaluation of therapeutic strategies targeting NET formation and components.

Main Results:

• NETs promote breast cancer invasion, intravascular infiltration, and distant metastasis.
• NETs are involved in capturing circulating tumor cells, forming pre-metastatic niches, and reactivating dormant cells.
• NETs are associated with resistance to chemotherapy and immunotherapy in breast cancer.

Conclusions:

• NETs play a critical role in multiple facets of breast cancer progression and treatment resistance.
• Targeting NETs, through agents like DNase I, PAD4 inhibitors, and elastase inhibitors, offers a promising therapeutic avenue.
• Further research into NET mechanisms and targeted interventions could lead to novel breast cancer treatment strategies.