Neither Outcomes4Me nor any participants in or contributors to any webinar, article or content endorses or recommends any products or services. Consult your physician regarding any treatment or therapy.
Watch an exclusive “Ask the Expert” webinar: “Advancing Breast Cancer Treatment From Trials to Clinical Practice.”
Featuring renowned breast oncologist Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky, Head, Breast and Gynecological Medical Oncology, Valley-Mount Sinai Comprehensive Cancer Care, this session delves into the critical role of clinical trials in transforming breast cancer care, with a special focus on metastatic breast cancer (mBC).
**a summary of the discussion is below**
Recent discussions in breast cancer research have focused on novel treatments, including Selective Estrogen Receptor Degraders (SERDs), advancements in precision medicine, and the role of genetic mutations in treatment selection. Below is an overview of these evolving areas, including potential treatments for different genetic markers and mutations.
1. SERDs: A New Class in Breast Cancer Therapy
Selective Estrogen Receptor Degraders (SERDs) are emerging as promising alternatives to traditional endocrine therapies like tamoxifen and aromatase inhibitors. Unlike aromatase inhibitors, which reduce estrogen production, SERDs work by degrading the estrogen receptors themselves, preventing estrogen from activating cancer cells. This action could potentially reduce side effects like hot flashes and joint pain, often seen with estrogen-suppressing therapies.
While the SERD fulvestrant (Faslodex) is already used for metastatic breast cancer, newer oral SERDs, such as elacestrant (approved for hormone-receptor-positive metastatic cancer with the ESR1 mutation), are under investigation for both metastatic and early-stage breast cancer. These SERDs could become less toxic alternatives and potentially more effective than existing endocrine therapies. Trials for early-stage breast cancer are ongoing, though results may take several years.
2. Understanding the ESR1 Mutation and Drug Resistance
In hormone receptor-positive breast cancer, tumors can develop an ESR1 mutation, which enables resistance to aromatase inhibitors. For patients with this mutation, switching to SERDs like elacestrant may help overcome this resistance, prolonging the effectiveness of treatment.
3. Precision Medicine in Breast Cancer: The Role of Biomarkers
Advances in precision medicine have underscored the importance of genetic and molecular testing in breast cancer. Biomarker tests such as ER, PR, HER2, ESR1, PIK3CA, and others help determine targeted treatment options. These tests help oncologists personalize therapies to a patient’s unique cancer profile, increasing the chance of successful outcomes.
4. Addressing Genetic Mutations: Current Research and Future Possibilities
Patients with inherited mutations, such as BRCA or ATM, can benefit from targeted therapies. For example, BRCA mutation carriers may receive PARP inhibitors like olaparib (Lynparza), which specifically target BRCA-mutated cancer cells. While specific drugs for ATM or CHEK2 mutations are not currently available, research is ongoing, and targeted treatments may be on the horizon.
5. The Future of Treatment Options
The complexity of breast cancer is evident, but so is the promise of emerging treatments. As precision medicine continues to advance, options for personalized, less toxic therapies expand, giving patients new hope for tailored treatment plans.
In Summary
SERDs, genetic testing, and precision medicine represent the future of breast cancer care. With more therapies targeting specific mutations and cellular mechanisms, patients have more effective options than ever, and ongoing research is likely to further revolutionize treatment in the coming years.
