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Updated: Aug 6, 2026
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Beyond conventional therapies: the evolution of targeted agents and immunotherapies in triple-negative breast cancer
Hui-Fang Cheng1, Yan-Mei Chen2, Pei-Yan Liu3
1Department of Ultrasound, China Medical University, The First Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, 110001, China.
Abstract:
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a clinically aggressive and molecularly heterogeneous subtype defined by the absence of estrogen receptor, progesterone receptor, and HER2 expression. Chemotherapy remains the mainstay of treatment, but recent advances in immune checkpoint inhibitors, DNA damage response-targeted therapies, antibody-drug conjugates, and small-molecule inhibitors have expanded therapeutic options. Despite these developments, clinical outcomes are still limited by tumor heterogeneity, suboptimal biomarker selection, resistance, and treatment-related toxicity. In this review, we summarize current and emerging therapeutic strategies for TNBC with a focus on their underlying biological rationale. We highlight key approaches targeting DNA repair deficiency, immune regulation, oncogenic signaling pathways, and antigen-directed therapies, and discuss their clinical development and application. We also address the role of molecular subtyping and biomarkers in guiding treatment selection, as well as the challenges posed by resistance and limited durability of response. Overall, this review provides an updated overview of TNBC treatment strategies and discusses ongoing challenges and future directions toward more effective and individualized therapies.
Insights
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) treatments are advancing beyond chemotherapy, exploring targeted therapies. This review details new strategies for TNBC, addressing challenges like resistance and heterogeneity for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive, heterogeneous subtype lacking standard therapeutic targets (ER, PR, HER2).
- Current TNBC treatment relies heavily on chemotherapy, with limited efficacy due to resistance and toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current and emerging therapeutic strategies for TNBC.
- To discuss the biological rationale, clinical development, and application of novel TNBC treatments.
- To address challenges in TNBC treatment, including resistance, heterogeneity, and biomarker selection.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of recent advancements in TNBC therapeutics.
- Analysis of targeted therapies including immune checkpoint inhibitors, DNA damage response inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and small-molecule inhibitors.
- Discussion of molecular subtyping and biomarker roles in guiding treatment decisions.
Main Results:
- Expanded therapeutic options for TNBC beyond traditional chemotherapy.
- Identification of key approaches targeting DNA repair, immune regulation, oncogenic pathways, and antigens.
- Recognition of limitations including tumor heterogeneity, resistance, and toxicity impacting clinical outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Novel therapeutic strategies offer expanded options for TNBC management.
- Molecular subtyping and biomarkers are crucial for personalized treatment selection.
- Addressing resistance and improving treatment durability are key future directions for effective TNBC therapy.
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