Radiogenomic landscape of metastatic endocrine-positive breast cancer resistant to aromatase inhibitors

Abstract

Breast cancer poses a significant global health challenge and includes various subtypes, such as endocrine-positive, HER2-positive, and triple-negative. Endocrine-positive breast cancer, characterized by estrogen and progesterone receptors, is commonly treated with aromatase inhibitors. However, resistance to these inhibitors can hinder patient outcomes due to genetic and epigenetic alterations, mutations in the estrogen receptor 1 gene, and changes in signaling pathways. Radiogenomics combines imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans with genomic profiling methods to identify radiographic biomarkers associated with resistance. This approach enhances our understanding of resistance mechanisms and metastasis patterns, linking them to specific genomic profiles and common metastasis sites like the bone and brain. By integrating radiogenomic data, personalized treatment strategies can be developed, improving predictive and prognostic capabilities. Advancements in imaging and genomic technologies offer promising avenues for enhancing radiogenomic research. A thorough understanding of resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies, making radiogenomics a valuable integrative approach in personalized medicine that aims to improve clinical outcomes for patients with metastatic endocrine-positive breast cancer.

SIMPLE SUMMARY Breast cancer is a serious health issue worldwide. The endocrine-positive type, which grows in response to estrogen and progesterone, is the most common. Treatments often include aromatase inhibitors. However, some patients become resistant to treatment through genetic changes or changes in cellular pathways. Radiogenomics is a new method that combines imaging processes like MRIs and CT scans with genetic studies. This approach facilitates our understanding of how cancer resists treatment and spreads, especially to the bones or brain. This method helps create personalized treatment plans by connecting imaging results with genetic profiles. With the current state of technology, radiogenomics is looked at as being able to improve the diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes of patients with hard-to-treat endocrine-positive breast cancers.