Precision medicine in breast cancer (Review)

Papalexis,Petros; Georgakopoulou,Vasiliki Epameinondas; Drossos,Panagiotis V.; Thymara,Eirini; Nonni,Aphrodite; Lazaris,Andreas C.; Zografos,George C.; Spandidos,Demetrios A.; Kavantzas,Nikolaos; Thomopoulou,Georgia Eleni

doi:10.3892/mco.2024.2776

Precision medicine in breast cancer (Review)

Authors:
- Petros Papalexis
- Vasiliki Epameinondas Georgakopoulou
- Panagiotis V. Drossos
- Eirini Thymara
- Aphrodite Nonni
- Andreas C. Lazaris
- George C. Zografos
- Demetrios A. Spandidos
- Nikolaos Kavantzas
- Georgia Eleni Thomopoulou
View Affiliations

Affiliations: First Department of Pathology, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece, Department of Pathophysiology, Laiko General Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece, Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of West Attica, 12243 Athens, Greece, Department of Propedeutic Surgery, Hippokration Hospital, University of Athens Medical School, 11527 Athens, Greece, Laboratory of Clinical Virology, School of Medicine, University of Crete, 71003 Heraklion, Greece, Cytopathology Department, ‘Attikon’ University General Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 12461 Athens, Greece
Published online on: August 20, 2024 https://doi.org/10.3892/mco.2024.2776
Article Number: 78
Copyright: © Papalexis et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of Creative Commons Attribution License.

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Abstract

Precision medicine in breast cancer is a revolutionary approach that customizes diagnosis and treatment based on individual and tumor characteristics, departing from the traditional one‑size‑fits‑all approach. Breast cancer is diverse, with various subtypes driven by distinct genetic mutations. Understanding this diversity is crucial for tailored treatment strategies that target specific vulnerabilities in each tumor. Genetic testing, particularly for mutations in breast cancer gene (BRCA) DNA repair‑associated genes, helps assess hereditary risks and influences treatment decisions. Molecular subtyping guides personalized treatments, such as hormonal therapies for receptor‑positive tumors and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2)‑targeted treatments. Targeted therapies, including those for HER2‑positive and hormone receptor‑positive breast cancers, offer more effective and precise interventions. Immunotherapy, especially checkpoint inhibitors, shows promise, particularly in certain subtypes such as triple‑negative breast cancer, with ongoing research aiming to broaden its effectiveness. Integration of big data and artificial intelligence enhances personalized treatment strategies, while liquid biopsies provide real‑time insights into tumor dynamics, aiding in treatment monitoring and modification. Challenges persist, including accessibility and tumor complexity, but emerging technologies and precision prevention offer hope for improved outcomes. Ultimately, precision medicine aims to optimize treatment efficacy, minimize adverse effects and enhance the quality of life for patients with breast cancer.