Therapeutic Potential of Tumor Suppressors in Treating Breast Cancer

Abstract

Despite significant advances in early detection and treatment, breast cancer remains a major cause of morbidity and mortality in women. The etiology of breast cancer involves a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal and dietary factors [1]. Recent studies have provided greater insights into the molecular mechanisms of breast carcinogenesis, which has enabled novel therapeutic strategies that target the molecular and genetic processes triggering neoplastic transformation. Genes affecting the cellular processes involved in neoplasia are classified as proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, and they regulate proteins involved in cell growth and proliferation. Therefore, mutations in these genes can contribute to the development of cancer [2]. Some oncoproteins and tumor suppressors directly regulate cell proliferation (either promoting or inhibiting), programmed cell death or apoptosis, and DNA repair [6]. Increasing knowledge of these genes and their involvement with the neoplastic pathways has provided greater opportunities to develop targeted therapeutics, which offer higher specificity, Abstract