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Precision therapy in metastatic breast cancer: the current landscape of molecular alteration-based therapies
Hafez M A Abdullah1, Suma Sri Chennapragada2, Rohit Singh3
1University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, USA.
Abstract:
Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women globally and remains the leading cause of cancer-related death among women. De novo metastatic breast cancer accounts for 5-10% of annual diagnoses, and approximately 30% of women with early-stage disease will eventually experience metastatic recurrence. Median survival varies by tumor subtype: 64-68 months for hormone receptor (HR)-positive/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)-negative cancers, 57-60 months for HER2-positive cancers, and around 13 months for triple-negative cancers. While current treatments-including chemotherapy, antibody-drug conjugates, endocrine therapy, HER2-targeted therapies, and immunotherapy-have significantly improved outcomes, resistance and disease progression remain ongoing challenges. Advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) have enabled the identification of molecular alterations amenable to targeted therapy, underscoring the need for continued research into novel therapeutic targets. As more targeted agents become available and others are in development, staying informed about emerging targetable molecular alterations is increasingly essential. This review aims to summarize current data on targetable molecular alterations in metastatic breast cancer, focusing on available therapeutic options, key clinical trials, and practical insights for oncologists to support informed decision-making.
Insights
Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) presents survival challenges, but advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) are identifying new targets. This review covers targetable molecular alterations and therapies for MBC, aiding clinical decisions.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women globally.
- Metastatic breast cancer (MBC) accounts for a significant portion of diagnoses and recurrences, with varied survival rates by subtype.
- Treatment resistance and disease progression remain significant challenges in managing MBC.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current data on targetable molecular alterations in metastatic breast cancer.
- To summarize available therapeutic options, clinical trials, and practical insights for oncologists.
- To highlight the importance of staying informed about emerging targetable alterations for informed decision-making.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of studies on molecular alterations in metastatic breast cancer.
- Analysis of current therapeutic strategies, including chemotherapy, targeted therapies, and immunotherapy.
- Examination of clinical trial data and emerging treatment options.
Main Results:
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has identified numerous molecular alterations amenable to targeted therapies.
- Diverse therapeutic options exist, including endocrine therapy, HER2-targeted agents, antibody-drug conjugates, and immunotherapy.
- Ongoing research continues to uncover novel therapeutic targets and agents for MBC.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies based on molecular alterations are crucial for improving outcomes in metastatic breast cancer.
- Continuous updates on targetable alterations and treatment advancements are essential for oncologists.
- Further research is needed to overcome treatment resistance and enhance survival for MBC patients.
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