Quadruple-negative breast cancer: novel implications for a new disease

• Type of Material: Article
• Authors: Shristi Bhattarai, Georgia State University; Geetanjali Saini, Georgia State University; Keerthi Gogineni, Emory University; Ritu Aneja, Georgia State University
• Language: English
• Date: 2020-11-19
• Publisher: BMC
• Publication Version: Final Published Version
• Copyright Statement: © The Author(s) 2020
• License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International
• Final Published Version (URL): http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s13058-020-01369-5
• Title of Journal or Parent Work: BREAST CANCER RESEARCH
• Volume: 22
• Grant/Funding Information: This study was supported by a grant from the National Cancer Institutes of Health (R01CA239120) to RA.
• Keywords: Cancer biomarkers; Triple-negative breast cancer; AR antagonists; Therapeutic targets; Androgen receptor; Quadruple-negative breast cancer
• Research Categories: Health Sciences, Oncology

Abstract

Based on the androgen receptor (AR) expression, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) can be subdivided into AR-positive TNBC and AR-negative TNBC, also known as quadruple-negative breast cancer (QNBC). QNBC characterization and treatment is fraught with many challenges. In QNBC, there is a greater paucity of prognostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets than AR-positive TNBC. Although the prognostic role of AR in TNBC remains controversial, many studies revealed that a lack of AR expression confers a more aggressive disease course. Literature characterizing QNBC tumor biology and uncovering novel biomarkers for improved management of the disease remains scarce. In this comprehensive review, we summarize the current QNBC landscape and propose avenues for future research, suggesting potential biomarkers and therapeutic strategies that warrant investigation.