Application of CDK4/6 inhibitors in the treatment of hormone receptor-positive breast cancer

Abstract

With roles of blocking cell proliferation, cyclin-dependent protein kinase (CDK) 4/6 inhi-bitors are effective and safe complementary therapies for hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. CDK4/6 inhibitors combined with endocrine therapy significantly improve the prognosis of patients with advanced or metastatic breast cancer, especially those with endocrine resistance. Indications for CDK4/6 inhibitors are also expected to broaden into early-stage breast cancer. However, mechanisms of resistance of CDK4/6 inhibitors remain elusive. Key words: Breast neoplasms; Receptors, estrogen; Cyclin-dependent kinases; Therapeutics