Signalling Pathways and Inhibitors in Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Current Progress

INTRODUCTION: Triple Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC), which makes up 15% of all breast cancers, is widely acknowledged as the most aggressive and challenging subtype of the disease. It is characterized by the absence of HER2 receptors, progesterone, and estrogen, which limits the options for targeted treatment and mainly affects younger women. It is associated with a poor prognosis due to its rapid progression, high recurrence rates, and risk of metastasizing into vital organs like the brain and lungs. These clinical challenges underscore the urgent need for personalized treatment plans and innovative therapeutic strategies. METHODS: Numerous studies have identified dysregulated signaling pathways in TNBC, including the PI3K/AKT/mTOR, JAK/STAT, Wnt/β-catenin, Notch, and MAPK/ERK pathways, which offer therapeutic targets. RESULTS: Recent developments in clinical and molecular research have presented potential treatment strategies. Pembrolizumab and other immune checkpoint inhibitors have demonstrated significant benefits when used in conjunction with chemotherapy for both early-stage and metastatic TNBC. In advanced patients, sacituzumab, govitecan, and other Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADCs) have shown remarkable efficacy in delivering cytotoxic medications, improving progression-free survival. Significant obstacles still exist despite these developments, such as tumor heterogeneity and treatment resistance. DISCUSSION: This review highlights the beneficial effects of small molecule inhibitors and combination therapies in treating the deadliest type of breast cancer, as well as the therapeutic potential of targeting dysregulated signaling pathways and providing insight into potential avenues for developing new therapies. CONCLUSION: To significantly enhance outcomes for TNBC patients, future research must concentrate on identifying predictive biomarkers and refining individualized therapy plans.