Targeting Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Resistance Mechanisms and Therapeutic Advancements

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Immunology

Background:

• Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous and aggressive cancer lacking targeted therapies.
• Chemotherapy remains the primary treatment, but chemoresistance is a significant challenge.
• Genomic instability, cellular proteins, immune targets, and epigenetic mechanisms are key areas of research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review TNBC-associated biomarkers and their therapeutic potential.
• To link biological mechanisms driving TNBC with emerging treatment strategies.
• To explore novel approaches for TNBC management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of TNBC biomarkers, therapeutic applications, and tumorigenesis.
• Focus on linking biological mechanisms with treatment options.
• Analysis of epigenetic modifications and RNA sequencing data.

Main Results:

• Biomarkers like PD-L1, survivin, and ABC transporters are crucial for tumor maintenance (proliferation, metastasis, immunosuppression, stemness).
• Emerging treatments include immunotherapy, pathway/PARP inhibition, virotherapy, and RNA targeting.
• Phytochemicals show promise as adjunct or sole treatments.

Conclusions:

• Focusing on tumor subpopulations and biomarkers (immune cells, cancer stem cells) can advance TNBC treatment.
• Epigenetic analysis and RNA sequencing are key techniques for biomarker discovery.
• Precision medicine approaches, including novel therapies and phytochemicals, are vital for improving TNBC outcomes.