Decoding Breast Cancer: Emerging Molecular Biomarkers and Novel Therapeutic Targets for Precision Medicine

Dámaris P Intriago-Baldeón1, Eduarda Sofía Pérez-Coral1, Martina Isabella Armas Samaniego2

  • 1Grupo de Investigación en Biomedicina Experimental y Aplicada, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad Internacional SEK (UISEK), Quito 170120, Ecuador.

Insights

This review covers classic and emerging biomarkers for breast cancer, including estrogen/progesterone receptors, HER2, Ki-67, TP53, and EGFR. Understanding these biomarkers aids precision medicine and improves therapeutic success.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death globally, characterized by significant molecular heterogeneity.
  • This heterogeneity complicates clinical management and treatment response prediction.
  • Current molecular classifications reflect distinct genetic alterations and signaling pathways within tumor subtypes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review classic and emerging biomarkers in breast cancer.
  • To discuss associated therapies and their clinical implications.
  • To highlight the role of biomarkers in advancing precision medicine.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of classic and emerging breast cancer biomarkers.
  • Analysis of established markers like estrogen and progesterone receptors, HER2, and Ki-67.
  • Identification and discussion of novel biomarkers including TP53, EGFR, RNAs, and epigenetic/immunological markers.

Main Results:

  • Classic biomarkers (ER, PR, HER2, Ki-67) have limitations in fully characterizing breast cancer.
  • Emerging biomarkers such as TP53, EGFR, various RNAs, and epigenetic/immunological markers offer deeper insights.
  • Integration of these biomarkers enhances understanding of molecular complexity.

Conclusions:

  • Novel biomarkers complement traditional ones, improving the characterization of breast cancer subtypes.
  • Precision medicine strategies, informed by comprehensive biomarker analysis, enhance therapeutic success rates.
  • Continued research into biomarkers is crucial for personalized breast cancer treatment.