We will exploit our rapidly increasing knowledge of genetics, molecular biology, and immunology to develop even more effective and less toxic treatments for breast cancer. We will also expand our ability to target and disrupt the effects of molecular changes that cause breast cells to become cancerous. In addition, we will use this knowledge to personalize breast cancer therapy.
Breast Cancer
Gene expression analysis has led to the identification of five subtypes of breast cancer that have distinct biological features, clinical outcomes, and responses to chemotherapy. This knowledge should allow the development of treatment strategies based on an individual's tumor characteristics.
The monoclonal antibody trastuzumab is being used to treat breast cancers that overproduce a protein called human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 or HER2. This protein is overproduced in about 20% of breast cancers. These HER2-overproducing cancers tend to be more aggressive and are more likely to recur. Trastuzumab targets the HER2 protein, and this antibody, in conjunction with adjuvant chemotherapy, can lower the risk of HER2- overproducing breast cancer recurrence by 50% compared to chemotherapy alone.
