Molecular Mechanisms And Therapeutic Challenges In Breast Cancer Progression And Metastasis

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Aliu Olalekan Olatunji, Sulaiman Khan, Muhammad Majid, Hrishik Iqbal, Raheela Sarwar, Sara khan, Ayesha Nazir

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer is the most common oncological condition in women worldwide. The mortality rate due to breast cancer is rising, particularly in advanced stages where the disease spreads to vital organs such as the lungs, bone marrow, and liver. Despite extensive research, the cause of the increasing death rate remains unclear.


Objectives: To identify key oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes involved in breast cancer progression and to highlight the molecular and cellular factors that contribute to metastasis and organ selectivity in advanced stages of the disease.


Methods: Review of both basic and clinical studies that have uncovered oncogenes such as HER-2/Neu, cyclins D1, D3, and E, and tumor suppressor genes including p53, ATM, PTEN, BRCA1, and BRCA2. The role of these genes, along with the expression of estrogen and progesterone receptors, in breast cancer diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment strategies was examined.


Results: In early-stage breast cancer, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery are effective in achieving remission. However, the prognosis for invasive and metastatic breast cancer remains poor, as these forms of the disease are currently incurable. A deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind metastasis and organ-specific dissemination is crucial for improving treatment outcomes.


Conclusions: Advances in the molecular and cellular understanding of breast cancer metastasis could lead to more effective therapeutic interventions, particularly in addressing organ-specific dissemination. Future research is needed to target the incurable nature of metastatic breast cancer and improve survival rates.

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