The role and application potential of cytochrome c in breast cancer therapy

Apoptosis plays an important role in all stages of normal breast development, including duct morphogenesis, lactation and proliferative regression. Abnormal apoptosis of breast cells leads to the occurrence of tumors. Studies have shown that the status of cytochrome c (cyt c) in the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway is crucial to the occurrence of cancer and is at the core of this pathway. The response of tumors to treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and endocrine therapy is, to a certain extent, achieved by inducing the release of cyt c and triggering the intrinsic pathway of apoptosis. cyt c has potential value in cancer treatment. The purpose of this review is to review the relevant literature, systematically explore the role of cyt c in the pathogenesis and treatment of breast cancer.