A randomized phase II trial of platinum salts in basal-like breast cancer patients in the neoadjuvant setting. Results from the GEICAM/2006-03, multicenter study

Early downmodulation of tumor glycolysis predicts response to fasting-mimicking diet in triple-negative breast cancer patients

In preclinical experiments, cyclic fasting-mimicking diets (FMDs) showed broad anticancer effects in combination with chemotherapy. Among different tumor types, triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is exquisitely sensitive to FMD. However, the antitumor activity and efficacy of cyclic FMD in TNBC patients remain unclear. Here, we show that a severely calorie-restricted, triweekly, 5-day FMD regimen results in excellent pathologic complete response (pCR) rates (primary endpoint) and long-term clinical outcomes (secondary endpoints) when combined with preoperative chemotherapy in 30 patients with early-stage TNBC enrolled in the phase 2 trial BREAKFAST. Bulk and single-cell RNA sequencing analysis revealed that highly glycolytic cancer cells, myeloid cells, and pericytes from tumors achieving pCR undergo a significant, early downmodulation of pathways related to glycolysis and pyruvate metabolism. Our findings pave the wave for conducting larger clinical trials to investigate the efficacy of cyclic FMD in early-stage TNBC patients and to validate early changes of intratumor glycolysis as a predictor of clinical benefit from nutrient restriction. This study was registered at Clinicaltrials.gov (NCT04248998).

Does T1c-2N0-1M0 triple negative breast cancer derive a benefit from neoadjuvant chemotherapy?

OBJECTIVES

Although neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NCT) is a standard approach for operable triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), the potential risks brought by it should also be noticed. Is the expanding indication of NCT to T1cN0M0 population appropriate? We conducted an investigation to compare the long-term survival of small tumor TNBC between NCT and adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT).

METHODS

For this propensity-matched analysis, we used data from Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. We enrolled 1183 cases with NCT and 2550 cases with ACT who are AJCC clinical T1c-T2 N0-N1, diagnosed with invasive triple-negative breast cancer, from 2016 to 2017. The propensity score matching was utilized to minimize baseline characteristics bias. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by the Cox proportional hazard regression model.

RESULTS

Compared with patients receiving ACT, patients with NCT in this study presented a higher proportion of younger age, T2 stage, N1 stage, and underwent more mastectomy. Multivariate analysis in matched patients showed that NCT had no significant survival benefit compared with ACT in T1c-2N0-1M0 TNBC patients. Stratified analyses by T stage and N stage demonstrated NCT mainly presented a survival advantage in patients with N1 stage. Further investigation found that NCT didn't improve BCSS (HR, 0.472; 95% CI 0.135-1.647; P = 0.239) and OS (HR, 0.392; 95% CI 0.147-1.047; P = 0.062) for patients with T1cN0M0 TNBC; however, it was associated with improved OS (HR, 1.951; 95% CI 1.003-3.797; P = 0.049) only for patients with T2N1M0 TNBC.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, we did not find any profit brought by NCT in the stage I and stage IIa cohorts, but even more unfavorable outcomes appeared in the T1cN0M0 cohort. Therefore, whether the candidates of NCT should be extended to T1cN0M0 still need to be cautious.

Association between homologous recombination deficiency status and carboplatin treatment response in early triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to assess homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status and its correlation with carboplatin treatment response in early triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients.

METHODS

Tumor tissues from 225 consecutive TNBC patients were evaluated with an HRD panel and homologous recombination-related (HRR) gene expression data. HRD positivity was defined as a high HRD score and/or BRCA1/2 pathogenic or likely pathogenic mutation. Clinicopathological factors, neoadjuvant treatment response, and prognosis were analyzed with respect to HRD status in these TNBC patients.

RESULTS

HRD positivity was found in 53.3% of patients and was significantly related to high Ki67 levels (P = 0.001). In patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy, HRD positivity (P = 0.005) or a high HRD score (P = 0.003) was significantly associated with a greater pathological complete response (pCR) rate, especially in those treated with carboplatin-containing neoadjuvant regimens (HRD positivity vs. negativity: 50.00% vs. 17.65%, P = 0.040). HRD positivity was associated with favorable distant metastasis-free survival (hazard ratio HR 0.49, 95% confidence interval CI 0.26-0.90, P = 0.022) and overall survival (HR 0.45, 95% CI 0.20-0.99, P = 0.049), irrespective of carboplatin treatment.

CONCLUSION

TNBC patients with high HRDs had high Ki67 levels and BRCA mutations. HRD-positive TNBC patients treated with carboplatin had a higher pCR rate. Patients with HRD positivity had a better prognosis, irrespective of carboplatin treatment, warranting further evaluation.

Neoadjuvant Therapy: Current Landscape and Future Horizons for ER-Positive/HER2-Negative and Triple-Negative Early Breast Cancer

OPINION STATEMENT

Navigating the complex landscape of breast cancer treatment involves distinct strategies for luminal and triple-negative subtypes. While neoadjuvant chemotherapy historically dominates the approach for aggressive triple-negative tumors, recent evidence highlights the transformative impact of immunotherapy, alongside chemotherapy, in reshaping treatment paradigms. In luminal cancers, endocrine therapy, notably aromatase inhibitors, demonstrates promising outcomes in postmenopausal patients with low-grade luminal A tumors. However, integrating targeted therapies like CDK4/6 inhibitors in neoadjuvant setting remains inconclusive. Identifying predictive factors for treatment response, especially in luminal tumors, poses a challenge, emphasizing the necessity for ongoing research. A multidisciplinary approach, tailored to individual patient profiles, is crucial for maximizing efficacy while minimizing toxicity. As we strive to optimize breast cancer management, a comprehensive understanding of the distinct characteristics and treatment implications of luminal and triple-negative subtypes, including the transformative role of immunotherapy, is essential for informed decision-making and personalized care.

Platinum chemotherapy for early triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer associated with shorter survival and a higher likelihood of recurrence. In early TNBC, platinum chemotherapy has been shown to improve pathological complete response (pCR); however, its effect on long-term survival outcomes has not been fully elucidated.

METHODS

Randomised controlled trials examining neoadjuvant or adjuvant platinum chemotherapy for early TNBC were included. Primary outcomes were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Secondary outcomes were pCR, treatment adherence, grade III or IV toxicity related to chemotherapy, and quality of life.

RESULTS

From 3972 records, we included 20 published studies. All studies reporting DFS and OS used carboplatin. Inclusion of platinum chemotherapy improved DFS (neoadjuvant: hazard ratio (HR) 0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 0.75; adjuvant: HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.88) and OS (neoadjuvant: HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86; adjuvant: 0.70, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.96). Our analysis confirmed platinum chemotherapy increased pCR rates (risk ratio (RR) 1.44, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.59). There were no differences seen in examined subgroups. Platinum chemotherapy was associated with reduced dose intensity and increased haematological toxicity.

CONCLUSIONS

Platinum-based chemotherapy using carboplatin in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting improves long-term outcomes of DFS and OS in early TNBC, with no evidence of differences by subgroup. This was at the cost of more frequent chemotherapy delays and dose reductions, and greater haematological toxicity. These findings support the use of platinum-based chemotherapy for people with early TNBC.

Clinical utility of genomic signatures for the management of early and metastatic triple-negative breast cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This comprehensive review aims to provide timely and relevant insights into the current therapeutic landscape for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) and the molecular features underlying this subtype. It emphasizes the need for more reliable biomarkers to refine prognostication and optimize therapy, considering the aggressive nature of TNBC and its limited targeted treatment options.

RECENT FINDINGS

The review explores the multidisciplinary management of early TNBC, which typically involves systemic chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy. It highlights the emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) as promising therapeutic strategies for TNBC. Recent clinical trials investigating the use of ICIs in combination with chemotherapy and the approval of pembrolizumab and atezolizumab for PD-L1-positive metastatic TNBC are discussed. The efficacy of PARP inhibitors and ADCs in treating TNBC patients with specific genetic alterations is also highlighted.

SUMMARY

The findings discussed in this review have significant implications for clinical practice and research in TNBC. The identification of distinct molecular subtypes through gene expression profiling has enabled a better understanding of TNBC heterogeneity and its clinical implications. This knowledge has the potential to guide treatment decisions, as different subtypes display varying responses to neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Furthermore, the review emphasizes the importance of developing reliable genomic and transcriptomic signatures as biomarkers to refine patient prognostication and optimize therapy selection in TNBC. Integrating these signatures into clinical practice may lead to more personalized treatment approaches, improving outcomes for TNBC patients.

Platinum-based chemotherapy for early triple-negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype of breast cancer associated with shorter survival and a higher likelihood of the cancer returning. In early TNBC, platinum-based chemotherapy has been shown to improve pathological complete response (pCR); however, its effect on long-term survival outcomes has not been fully elucidated and recommendations to include platinum chemotherapy are not consistent in international guidelines.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the benefits and harms of platinum-based chemotherapy as adjuvant and neoadjuvant treatment in people with early triple-negative breast cancer.

SEARCH METHODS

We used standard, extensive Cochrane search methods. The latest search date was 4 April 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials examining neoadjuvant or adjuvant platinum chemotherapy for early TNBC.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Our secondary outcomes were pCR, treatment adherence, grade III or IV toxicity related to chemotherapy, and quality of life. Prespecified subgroups included BRCA mutation status, homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) status, frequency of chemotherapy, type of platinum agent used, and the presence or absence of anthracycline chemotherapy. We assessed risk of bias using Cochrane's RoB 1 tool and certainty of evidence using the GRADE approach.

MAIN RESULTS

From 3972 records, we included 20 published studies involving 21 treatment comparisons, and 25 ongoing studies. For most domains, risk of bias was low across studies. There were 16 neoadjuvant chemotherapy studies (one of which combined neoadjuvant and adjuvant therapy) and four adjuvant chemotherapy trials. Most studies used carboplatin (17 studies) followed by cisplatin (two), and lobaplatin (one). Eight studies had an anthracycline-free intervention arm, five of which had a carboplatin-taxane intervention compared to an anthracycline-taxane control. All studies reporting DFS and OS used carboplatin. Inclusion of platinum chemotherapy improved DFS in neoadjuvant and adjuvant settings (neoadjuvant: hazard ratio (HR) 0.63, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.53 to 0.75; 7 studies, 8 treatment comparisons, 1966 participants; high-certainty evidence; adjuvant: HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.54 to 0.88; 4 studies, 1256 participants; high-certainty evidence). Platinum chemotherapy in the regimen improved OS (neoadjuvant: HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.55 to 0.86; 7 studies, 8 treatment comparisons, 1973 participants; high-certainty evidence; adjuvant: 0.70, 95% CI 0.50 to 0.96; 4 studies, 1256 participants; high-certainty evidence). Median follow-up for survival outcomes ranged from 36 to 97.6 months. Our analysis confirmed platinum chemotherapy increased pCR rates (risk ratio (RR) 1.44, 95% CI 1.31 to 1.59; 15 studies, 16 treatment comparisons, 3083 participants; high-certainty evidence). Subgroup analyses showed no evidence of differences in DFS according to BRCA mutation status, HRD status, lymph node status, or whether the intervention arm contained anthracycline chemotherapy or not. Platinum chemotherapy was associated with reduced dose intensity, with participants more likely to require chemotherapy delays (RR 2.23, 95% CI 1.70 to 2.94; 4 studies, 5 treatment comparisons, 1053 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), dose reductions (RR 1.77, 95% CI 1.56 to 2.02; 7 studies, 8 treatment comparisons, 2055 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and early cessation of treatment (RR 1.20, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.38; 16 studies, 17 treatment comparisons, 4178 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Increased haematological toxicity occurred in the platinum group who were more likely to experience grade III/IV neutropenia (RR 1.53, 95% CI 1.43 to 1.63; 19 studies, 20 treatment comparisons, 4849 participants; moderate-certainty evidence), anaemia (RR 8.20, 95% CI 5.66 to 11.89; 18 studies, 19 treatment comparisons, 4757 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and thrombocytopenia (RR 7.59, 95% CI 5.10 to 11.29; 18 studies, 19 treatment comparisons, 4731 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). There was no evidence of a difference between chemotherapy groups in febrile neutropenia (RR 1.16, 95% CI 0.89 to 1.49; 11 studies, 3771 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). Renal impairment was very rare (0.4%, 2 events in 463 participants; note 3 studies reported 0 events in both arms; 4 studies; high-certainty evidence). Treatment-related death was very rare (0.2%, 7 events in 3176 participants and similar across treatment groups; RR 0.58, 95% 0.14 to 2.33; 10 studies, 11 treatment comparisons; note 8 studies reported treatment-related deaths but recorded 0 events in both groups. Thus, the RR and CIs were calculated from 3 studies rather than 11; 3176 participants; high-certainty evidence). Five studies collected quality of life data but did not report them.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Platinum-based chemotherapy using carboplatin in the adjuvant or neoadjuvant setting improves long-term outcomes of DFS and OS in early TNBC, with no evidence of differences by subgroup. This was at the cost of more frequent chemotherapy delays and dose reductions, and greater haematological toxicity, though serious adverse events including neuropathy, febrile neutropenia or treatment-related death were not increased. These findings support the use of platinum-based chemotherapy for people with early TNBC. The optimal dose and regimen are not defined by this analysis, but there is a suggestion that similar relative benefits result from the addition of carboplatin to either anthracycline-free regimens or those containing anthracycline agents.

Comparative efficacy and safety of first-line neoadjuvant treatments in triple-negative breast cancer: systematic review and network meta-analysis

Neoadjuvant treatment options for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) are abundant, but the efficacy of different combinations of treatment options remains unclear. Our network meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of various neoadjuvant treatment options in patients with TNBC. Literature reports published before March 31, 2022, were retrieved from the PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, main oncology conference of the European Society of Medical Oncology, American Society of Clinical Oncology, and San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium databases. Pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analyses were performed to compare direct and indirect evidence, respectively. The primary outcome was pathological complete response (pCR). Comparison of efficiency between different treatment regimens was made by HRs and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Overall, 26 studies, including 9714 TNBC patients, were assessed in this network meta-analysis. Results indicated that the pCR of immune checkpoint inhibitors plus platinum-containing regimens is better than other joint regimens. PCR rate of neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimens containing bevacizumab, platinum, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors was higher than those of standard chemotherapy agents. By performing a conjoint analysis of the pCR rate and safety endpoints, we found that immune checkpoint inhibitors plus platinum-containing regimens were well balanced in terms of efficacy and toxicity. Considering the efficacy and acceptable adverse events, neoadjuvant chemotherapy based on immune checkpoint inhibitors plus platinum may be considered as an option for patients with TNBC.

Advances in the Management of Early-Stage Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a subtype of breast cancer with both inter- and intratumor heterogeneity, thought to result in a more aggressive course and worse outcomes. Neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) has become the preferred treatment modality of early-stage TNBC as it allows for the downstaging of tumors in the breast and axilla, monitoring early treatment response, and most importantly, provides important prognostic information that is essential to determining post-surgical therapies to improve outcomes. It focuses on combinations of systemic drugs to optimize pathologic complete response (pCR). Excellent response to NAT has allowed surgical de-escalation in ideal candidates. Further, treatment algorithms guide the systemic management of patients based on their pCR status following surgery. The expanding knowledge of molecular pathways, genomic sequencing, and the immunological profile of TNBC has led to the use of immune checkpoint inhibitors and targeted agents, including PARP inhibitors, further revolutionizing the therapeutic landscape of this clinical entity. However, subgroups most likely to benefit from these novel approaches in TNBC remain elusive and are being extensively studied. In this review, we describe current practices and promising therapeutic options on the horizon for TNBC, surgical advances, and future trends in molecular determinants of response to therapy in early-stage TNBC.

Clinical Utility of Genomic Tests Evaluating Homologous Recombination Repair Deficiency (HRD) for Treatment Decisions in Early and Metastatic Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is the most frequently occurring cancer worldwide. With its increasing incidence, it is a major public health problem, with many therapeutic challenges such as precision medicine for personalized treatment. Thanks to next-generation sequencing (NGS), progress in biomedical technologies, and the use of bioinformatics, it is now possible to identify specific molecular alterations in tumor cells-such as homologous recombination deficiencies (HRD)-enabling us to consider using DNA-damaging agents such as platinum salts or PARP inhibitors. Different approaches currently exist to analyze impairment of the homologous recombination pathway, e.g., the search for specific mutations in homologous recombination repair (HRR) genes, such as BRCA1/2; the use of genomic scars or mutational signatures; or the development of functional tests. Nevertheless, the role and value of these different tests in breast cancer treatment decisions remains to be clarified. In this review, we summarize current knowledge on the clinical utility of genomic tests, evaluating HRR deficiency for treatment decisions in early and metastatic breast cancer.

Prognostic Factors for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer with Residual Disease after Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy

Valid factors to evaluate the prognosis of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) with residual disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) are still lacking. We performed this study to explore prognostic factors focusing on genetic alterations and clinicopathology features in non- pathologic complete response (pCR) TNBC patients. Patients initially diagnosed with early-stage TNBC, treated with NAC, and who had residual disease after primary tumor surgery at the China National Cancer Center during 2016 and 2020 were enrolled. Genomic analyses were performed by targeted sequencing for each tumor sample. Univariable and multivariable analyses were conducted to screen prognostic factors for the survival of patients. Fifty-seven patients were included in our study. Genomic analyses showed that TP53 (41/57, 72%), PIK3CA (12/57, 21%), and MET (7/57, 12%), and PTEN (7/57, 12%) alternations commonly occurred. The clinical TNM (cTNM) stage and PIK3CA status were independent prognostic factors of disease-free survival (DFS) (p < 0.001, p = 0.03). A prognostic stratification indicated that patients with clinical stages I &II possessed the best DFS, followed by those with clinical stage III & wild-type PIK3CA. In contrast, patients with clinical stage III & the PIK3CA mutation had the worst DFS. In TNBC patients with residual disease after NAC, prognostic stratification for DFS was observed by combining the cTNM stage and PIK3CA status.

'ADVANCE' (a pilot trial) ADjuVANt chemotherapy in the elderly: Developing and evaluating lower-toxicity chemotherapy options for older patients with breast cancer

INTRODUCTION

Older adults with breast cancer receiving neo/adjuvant chemotherapy are at high risk for poor outcomes and are underrepresented in clinical trials. The ADVANCE (ADjuVANt Chemotherapy in the Elderly) trial evaluated the feasibility of two neo/adjuvant chemotherapy regimens in parallel-enrolling cohorts of older patients with human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-negative breast cancer: cohort 1-triple-negative; cohort 2-hormone receptor-positive.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Adults age ≥ 70 years with stage I-III breast cancer warranting neo/adjuvant chemotherapy were enrolled. Cohort 1 received weekly carboplatin (area under the curve 2) and weekly paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 for twelve weeks; cohort 2 received weekly paclitaxel 80 mg/m2 plus every-three-weekly cyclophosphamide 600 mg/m2 over twelve weeks. The primary study endpoint was feasibility, defined as ≥80% of patients receiving ≥80% of intended weeks/doses of therapy. All dose modifications were applied per clinician discretion.

RESULTS

Forty women (n = 20 per cohort) were enrolled from March 25, 2019 through August 3, 2020 from three centers; 45% and 35% of patients in cohorts 1 and 2 were age > 75, respectively. Neither cohort achieved targeted thresholds for feasibility. In cohort 1, eight (40.0%) met feasibility (95% confidence interval [CI] = 19.1-63.9%), while ten (50.0%) met feasibility in cohort 2 (95% CI = 27.2-72.8). Neutropenia was the most common grade 3-4 toxicity (cohort 1-65%, cohort 2-55%). In cohort 1, 80% and 85% required ≥1 dose holds of carboplatin and/or paclitaxel, respectively. In cohort 2, 10% required dose hold(s) for cyclophosphamide and/or 65% for paclitaxel.

DISCUSSION

In this pragmatic pilot examining chemotherapy regimens in older adults with breast cancer, neither regimen met target goals for feasibility. Developing efficacious and tolerable regimens for older patients with breast cancer who need chemotherapy remains an important goal.

CLINICALTRIALS

gov Identifier: NCT03858322.

Incorporating weekly carboplatin in anthracycline and paclitaxel-containing neoadjuvant chemotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer: propensity-score matching analysis and TIL evaluation

BACKGROUND

The generation of data capturing the risk-benefit ratio of incorporating carboplatin (Cb) to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) in a clinical practice setting is urgently needed. Tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) have an established role in TNBC receiving NACT, however, the role of TIL dynamics under NACT exposure in patients receiving the current standard of care is largely uncharted.

METHODS

Consecutive TNBC patients receiving anthracycline-taxane [A-T] +/- Cb NACT at three Institutions were enrolled. Stromal-TILs were evaluated on pre-NACT and residual disease (RD) specimens. In the clinical cohort, propensity-score-matching was used to control selection bias.

RESULTS

In total, 247 patients were included (A-T = 40.5%, A-TCb = 59.5%). After propensity-score-matching, pCR was significantly higher for A-TCb vs A-T (51.9% vs 34.2%, multivariate: OR = 2.40, P = 0.01). No differences in grade ≥3 haematological toxicities were observed. TILs increased from baseline to RD in the overall population and across A-T/A-TCb subgroups. TIL increase from baseline to RD was positively and independently associated with distant disease-free survival (multivariate: HR = 0.43, P = 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

We confirmed in a clinical practice setting of TNBC patients receiving A-T NACT that the incorporation of weekly Cb significantly improved pCR. In addition, A-T +/- Cb enhanced immune infiltration from baseline to RD. Finally, we reported a positive independent prognostic role of TIL increase after NACT exposure.

Optimization of Neoadjuvant Therapy for Early-Stage Triple-Negative and HER2 + Breast Cancer

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Neoadjuvant, or pre-operative, therapy for the treatment of early-stage breast cancer has several potential benefits, especially for patients with triple-negative or HER2 + subtypes. This review provides an overview of optimal practices for utilizing neoadjuvant therapy, guidelines for decision-making, and ongoing clinical trials that are expected to help refine therapy choices.

RECENT FINDINGS

For triple-negative disease, the addition of the checkpoint inhibitor pembrolizumab to chemotherapy has shown remarkable efficacy, increasing response rates and survival. In the HER2 + setting, we are now able to safely avoid use of anthracyclines in most patients and refine adjuvant treatment choices based on response to neoadjuvant therapy. Results from recent clinical studies highlight advancements in systemic therapy and mark steps toward precision medicine, although reliable biomarkers of therapy response are still needed.

The triple negative breast cancer drugs graveyard: a review of failed clinical trials 2017-2022

INTRODUCTION

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) accounts for 15-20% of breast cancers (BC) and has the worst prognosis. It is characterized by the absence of both hormone receptor (HR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2). TNBC has more limited therapeutic options compared to other subtypes, meaning that there is still a long way to go to discover target treatments.

AREAS COVERED

Our review aims to summarize phase II/III clinical trials enrolling patients with TNBC that have been published between 2017 and 2022 but failed to reach their primary endpoint. We here try to emphasize the limitations and weaknesses noted in negative studies and to point out unexpected results which might be useful to enhance the therapeutic approach to TNBC disease.

EXPERT OPINION

A deeper understanding of the mechanisms behind TNBC heterogeneity allowed to enhance the knowledge of new prognostic and predictive biomarkers of response. However, it is also through several failed clinical trials that we were able to define new therapeutic approaches which improved TNBC patients' clinical outcomes. Nowadays, we still need to overcome several difficulties to fully recognize different intracellular and extracellular pathways that crosstalk in TNBC and the mechanisms of resistance to identify novel tailored-patients' therapies.

Efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant therapy for triple-negative breast cancer: a Bayesian network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Numerous studies have concentrated on neoadjuvant therapies for treating triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) that improve the pathological complete response (pCR) rate but remain controversial. We conducted a network meta-analysis (NMA) to objectively explore the efficacy and safety of different neoadjuvant regimens.

METHODS

Phase II/III randomized clinical trials that compared different neoadjuvant therapies for TNBC were included. NMA and pairwise meta-analysis were performed using WinBUGS (version 1.4.3) and Review Manager 5.3.

RESULTS

Forty-four studies with 8459 patients met the eligibility criteria. The NMA of pCR showed that programmed cell death Protein-1 and programmed cell death Ligand-1 inhibitors (PD-1/PD-L1), bevacizumab (Bev), zoledronic acid (ZOL), and platinum salts plus poly polymerase inhibitors (Pt+PARPi) may be favorable for TNBC neoadjuvant therapy. Chemotherapy combined with platinum salts or nanoparticle albumin-bound paclitaxel (Nab-p) has additional beneficial effects. However, neo-type drugs may also have increased toxicity.

CONCLUSION

PD-1/PD-L1, Bev, ZOL, and Pt+ PARPi-containing regimens improved the pCR rate compared to traditional chemotherapy, including anthracyclines and taxanes. Chemotherapy with platinum salts or Nab-p improved the pCR rate. Nevertheless, the balance between efficacy and toxicity should be evaluated rigorously. PD-1/PD-L1-containing regimens appear to be the most favorable for TNBC neoadjuvant therapy, with good efficacy and tolerance.

Moment of truth-adding carboplatin to neoadjuvant/adjuvant chemotherapy in triple negative breast cancer improves overall survival: An individual participant data and trial-level Meta-analysis

Importance

Carboplatin increases the pathological complete remission (pCR) rate in triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) when added to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, however, evidence on its effect on survival outcomes is controversial.

Methods

The study was prospectively registered at PROSPERO (CRD42021228386).

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Clinical Trials, and conference proceedings from January 1, 2004 to January 30, 2022 for relevant randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy in TNBC patients, with carboplatin in the intervention arm and standard anthracycline taxane (AT) in the control arm. PRISMA guidelines were used for this review. Data were pooled using fixed and random effects models as appropriate on extracted hazard ratios (HR). Individual patient data (IPD)for disease free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were extracted from published survival curves of included RCTs; DFS and OS curves for each trial and the combined population were reconstructed, and HR estimated. The primary outcome was DFS; OS, pCR, and toxicity were secondary outcomes.

Results

Eight trials with 2425 patients were included. Carboplatin improved DFS (HR 0.60; 95% CI 0.47 to 0.78; I² 45%, p < 0.001) compared with AT at trial level and IPD level (HR 0.66; 95%CI, 0.55 to 0.80, p < 0.001) analysis. The OS also improved with carboplatin at both trial level (HR 0.69, 95%CI 0.50 to 0.95, I² 41%, p = 0.02) and IPD level (HR 0.68; 95%CI, 0.54 to 0.87, p = 0.002) analysis. The pCR as expected, was better in the carboplatin arm (OR 2.11; 95% CI = 1.44–3.08; I² 67%, p = 0.009). Anaemia and thrombocytopaenia were higher in the carboplatin arm.

Conclusion

and relevance: Carboplatin added to (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy in TNBC improves survival, as shown in both trial level and IPD analysis.

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Carboplatin in (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy improves disease-free and overall survival in TNBC.

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Individual participant data analysis confirms this result.

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Expected increase in myelosuppression seen with carboplatin.

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These results have practice-changing implications in how we treat TNBC.

Biomarker Dynamics and Long-Term Treatment Outcomes in Breast Cancer Patients with Residual Cancer Burden after Neoadjuvant Therapy

A residual cancer burden after neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) for breast cancer (BC) is associated with worse treatment outcomes compared to patients who achieved pathologic complete remission. This single-institutional retrospective study of 767 consecutive patients, including 468 patients with assessable residual cancer burden (aRCB) after NAT, with a median follow-up of 36 months, evaluated the biomarkers assessed before NAT from a biopsy and after NAT from a surgical specimen, their dynamics, and effect on long-term outcomes in specific breast cancer subtypes. The leading focus was on proliferation index Ki-67, which was significantly altered by NAT in all BC subtypes (p < 0.001 for HER2 positive and luminal A/B HER2 negative and p = 0.001 for TNBC). Multivariable analysis showed pre-NAT and post-NAT Ki-67 as independent predictors of survival outcomes for luminal A/B HER2 negative subtype. For TNBC, post-NAT Ki-67 was significant alone, and, for HER2 positive, the only borderline association of pre-NAT Ki-67 was observed in relation to the overall survival. Steroid and HER2 receptors were re-assessed just in a portion of the patients with aRCB. The concordance of both assessments was 92.9% for ER status, 80.1% for PR, and 92.2% for HER2. In conclusion, these real-world data of a consecutive cohort confirmed the importance of biomarkers assessment in patients with aRCB, and the need to consider specific BC subtypes when interpreting their influence on prognosis.

Therapeutic pattern and progress of neoadjuvant treatment for triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease, accounting for about 15.0-20.0% of all breast cancer cases. TNBC is associated with early recurrence and metastasis, strong invasiveness and a poor prognosis. Chemotherapy is currently the mainstay of treatment for TNBC, and achievement of a pathological complete response is closely associated with a long-term good prognosis. Improving the long-term prognosis in patients with TNBC is a challenge in breast cancer treatment, and more clinical evidence is needed to guide the choice of treatment strategies. The current study reviews the conventional treatment modality for TNBC and the selection of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) regimens available. The research progress on optimizing NACT regimens is also reviewed, and the uniqueness of the treatment of this breast cancer subtype is emphasized, in order to provide reference for the clinical practice and research with regard to TNBC treatment.

Evolving Evidence for the Optimization of Neoadjuvant Therapy in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Representing 15% to 20% of all invasive breast cancers, adjuvant systemic treatment for early-stage, high-risk triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is preferentially done in the neoadjuvant setting based on a chemotherapy backbone of anthracyclines and taxanes. Pathological complete response to neoadjuvant treatment constitutes the main objective, regarding its correlation with oncological outcomes. The optimal neoadjuvant regimen to achieve the highest rates of pathological complete response is still under investigation, with the increasing knowledge on the molecular pathways, genomic sequencing, and immunological profile of TNBC allowing for the development of a wide array of new therapeutic options. This review aims to summarize the current evidence and ongoing clinical trials of new therapeutic options for the neoadjuvant treatment of TNBC patients.

Automatic data extraction to support meta-analysis statistical analysis: a case study on breast cancer

Background

Meta-analyses aggregate results of different clinical studies to assess the effectiveness of a treatment. Despite their importance, meta-analyses are time-consuming and labor-intensive as they involve reading hundreds of research articles and extracting data. The number of research articles is increasing rapidly and most meta-analyses are outdated shortly after publication as new evidence has not been included. Automatic extraction of data from research articles can expedite the meta-analysis process and allow for automatic updates when new results become available. In this study, we propose a system for automatically extracting data from research abstracts and performing statistical analysis.

Materials and methods

Our corpus consists of 1011 PubMed abstracts of breast cancer randomized controlled trials annotated with the core elements of clinical trials: Participants, Intervention, Control, and Outcomes (PICO). We proposed a BERT-based named entity recognition (NER) model to identify PICO information from research abstracts. After extracting the PICO information, we parse numeric outcomes to identify the number of patients having certain outcomes for statistical analysis.

Results

The NER model extracted PICO elements with relatively high accuracy, achieving F1-scores greater than 0.80 in most entities. We assessed the performance of the proposed system by reproducing the results of an existing meta-analysis. The data extraction step achieved high accuracy, however the statistical analysis step achieved low performance because abstracts sometimes lack all the required information.

Conclusion

We proposed a system for automatically extracting data from research abstracts and performing statistical analysis. We evaluated the performance of the system by reproducing an existing meta-analysis and the system achieved a relatively good performance, though more substantiation is required.

Platinum-based adjuvant therapy was efficient for triple-negative breast cancer: a meta-analysis from randomized controlled trials

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive breast cancer. Neoadjuvant chemotherapy was widely accepted for treating TNBC. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and survival benefit of platinum-based adjuvant therapy (PBAT) in treating TNBC. The keywords were searched in Medline, Embase, Pubmed, and Cochrane Library database up to July 24, 2022. All the randomized control trials (RCTs) comparing PBAT and non-PBAT in treating TNBC were included in our study. The pathological complete remission (pCR) and complications were compared by odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The overall survival (OS) and relapse-free survival (RFS) were compared by hazard ratio (HR) and 95% CIs. A total of 19 RCTs were included in our meta-analysis, among which 2,501 patients were treated with PBAT and 2,290 with non-PBAT. The patients treated with PBAT combined a significantly higher pCR rate compared to those patients treated with non-PBAT (49.8% versus 36.4%, OR = 1.27, 95%CI = 1.14-1.43, P < 0.001). Besides, patients treated with PBAT had a significantly better RFS (HR = 0.78, 95%CI = 0.63-0.95, P = 0.016), but not in OS (HR = 0.84, P = 0.304). Although the occurrence of neutropenia and nausea were slightly different between the PBAT group (51.5% and 24.4%) and the non-PBAT group (47.0% and 29.4%), the complications were acceptable in the two treatments groups. Our results demonstrated that TNBC patients treated with PBAT could achieve a higher pCR rate and better RFS benefit without a higher complication rate.Highlights Platinum-based adjuvant therapy provided a higher pCR rate for TNBC.Platinum-based adjuvant therapy prolonged the RFS but without prolongingthe OS.Neutropenia and nausea rate was different between group PBAT and non-PBAT.

Derived Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio Predicts Pathological Complete Response to Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Breast Cancer

Background

Derived neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (dNLR) is a biomarker associated with clinical outcome in breast cancer (BC). We analyzed the association of dNLR with pathological complete response (pCR) in triple-negative BC (TNBC) patients receiving neoadjuvant chemotherapy (CT).

Methods

This is a retrospective analysis of two randomized studies involving early stage/locally advanced TNBC patients receiving anthracycline/taxane-based CT+/−carboplatin (GEICAM/2006-03) or nab-paclitaxel/paclitaxel followed by anthracycline regimen (ETNA). dNLR was calculated as the ratio of neutrophils to the difference between total leukocytes and neutrophils in peripheral blood before CT (baseline) and at the end of treatment (EOT). Logistic regression analyses were used to explore dNLR association with pCR.

Results

In total, 308 TNBC patients were analyzed, 216 from ETNA and 92 from GEICAM/2006-03. Baseline median dNLR was 1.61 (interquartile range (IQR): 1.25–2.04) and at EOT 1.53 (IQR: 0.96–2.22). Baseline dNLR showed positive correlation with increased tumor size (p-value = 1e−04). High baseline dNLR, as continuous variable or using median cutoff, was associated with lower likelihood of pCR in univariate analysis. High EOT dNLR as continuous variable or using quartiles was also associated with lower pCR rate in uni- and multivariate analyses.

Conclusions

High baseline and EOT dNLR correlates with lower benefit from neoadjuvant CT in TNBC.

A meta-analysis of the effect and safety of platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in treatment of resectable triple-negative breast cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is the most aggressive and fatal subtype of breast cancer. The effectiveness of platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in treatment of cancer has many divergent opinions. A search was conducted in the PubMed, EBSCO, Web of Science and Cochrane Library databases for relevant studies published before August 2020. The primary endpoint was pathological complete response (pCR) while the secondary endpoints were objective response rate (ORR), overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS). Nine randomized controlled trials comprised of 1873 patients were included in this meta-analysis. Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy showed significant improvements in pCR (RR = 1.51, 95% CI, 1.25-1.82, P < 0.001), ORR (RR = 1.20, 95% CI, 1.07-1.34, P = 0.001), OS (HR=0.56; 95% CI, 0.15-0.96, P < 0.001) and PFS (HR = 0.48, 95% CI, 0.22-0.73, P < 0.001) compared to nonplatinum neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Moreover, addition of platinum compounds did not significantly increase the side effects of any grade. However, there was an increase in blood toxicity of grade 3 patients which meant that it was mainly confined to the bone marrow/blood system. Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy can safely improve short-term and long-term outcomes in resectable TNBC patients.

Pathological complete response following cisplatin or carboplatin-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer: A systematic review and meta-analysis

The addition of platinum compounds to standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is highly controversial. Platinum agents, such as cisplatin and carboplatin, are DNA-damaging agents which exhibit activity in breast cancer, particularly in the TNBC subgroup. In order to assess the efficacy of each most representative platinum agent (cisplatin and carboplatin) in patients with TNBC treated with NACT, the present study performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of all available published studies on TNBC. A search of PubMed was performed to identify studies that investigated platinum-based NACT in patients with TNBC. The primary endpoints were the pooled rate of the pathological complete response (pCR) between cisplatin vs. carboplatin-based NACT. A total of 24 studies were selected (17 studies for carboplatin and 6 studies for cisplatin and 1 study with both carboplatin and cisplatin, with 20 prospective studies) for the analysis of 1,711 patients with TNBC. Overall, the pooled rate of pCR in patients treated with platinum-based NACT was 48%. No significant differences were observed between the rates of pCR obtained under carboplatin vs cisplatin treatment. The carboplatin pCR rate was 0.470 [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.401-0.539], while the cisplatin pCR rate was 0.473 (95% CI, 0.379-0.568). The comparison between these two categories revealed no significant differences (P=0.959). In the whole, the present study demonstrates that neoadjuvant platinum-based chemotherapy improves the pCR rate in patients with TNBC, regardless of the platinum agent used. Carboplatin may thus represent a viable option due to its more favorable toxicity profile.

Survival benefit of platinum-based regimen in early stage triple negative breast cancer: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

Platinum (Pt)-based chemo-regimens have been proved effective in neoadjuvant and salvage chemotherapy of triple negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the survival benefit of Pt-based regimens in early stage TNBC(eTNBC) treatment has remained unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis to explore its role in improving the clinical outcomes of eTNBC. We carried out a comprehensive literature search on 15 March 2021 for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing ajuvant/neoadjuvant Pt-based and Pt-free chemo-regimens in eTNBC patients, according to PRISMA 2020. We extracted the survival data and utilized the STATA software to calculate the summarized hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI) for overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS). Seven eligible RCTs enrolling a total of 2,027 eTNBC patients were identified in this meta-analysis, with 1,007 receiving Pt-free regimens, and the other 1,020 patients receiving Pt-based regimens, respectively. Patients in Pt-based regimens arm were associated with significant improved DFS (HR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.58–0.84), and OS (HR = 0.78, 95% CI: 0.61–1.00). The survival benefits of DFS remained consistent in both the two strategies of Pt usage, either adding Pt to standard anthracyclines&taxanes based regimens (A&T + Pt), or combination of Pt and taxanes alone (TPt). The survival benefits also remained consistent in either neoadjuvant or adjuvant use of Pt. The present meta-analysis of RCTs revealed that Pt-based chemo-regimens could significantly improve both DFS and OS for eTNBC patients. Based on efficiency and toxicity, we recommend Pt-based regimens for eTNBC, especially the “A&T + Pt” mode if the toxicities are tolerable, which may lead TNBC therapy into a new era.

Association of 17q22 Amplicon Via Cell-Free DNA With Platinum Chemotherapy Response in Metastatic Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

PURPOSE

To determine whether specific somatic copy-number alterations detectable in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) from patients with metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (mTNBC) are associated with sensitivity to platinum chemotherapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this secondary analysis of a large cohort of patients with mTNBC whose ctDNA underwent ultralow-pass whole-genome sequencing, tumor fraction and somatic copy-number alterations were derived with the ichorCNA algorithm. Seventy-two patients were identified who had received a platinum-based chemotherapy regimen in the metastatic setting. Gene-level copy-number analyses were performed with GISTIC2.0. Cytobands were associated with progression-free survival (PFS) to platinum chemotherapy using Cox proportional hazards models. The Cancer Genome Atlas and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium data sets were interrogated for frequency of significant cytobands in primary triple-negative breast cancer (pTNBC) tumors.

RESULTS

Among 71 evaluable patients, 17q21 and 17q22 amplifications were most strongly associated with improved PFS with platinum chemotherapy. There were no significant differences in clinicopathologic features or (neo)adjuvant chemotherapy among patients with 17q22 amplification. Patients with 17q22 amplification (n = 17) had longer median PFS with platinum (7.0 v 3.8 months; log-rank P = .015) than patients without 17q22 amplification (n = 54), an effect that remained significant in multivariable analyses (PFS hazard ratio 0.37; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.84; P = .02). Among 39 patients who received the nonplatinum chemotherapy agent capecitabine, there was no association between 17q22 amplification and capecitabine PFS (log-rank P = .69). In The Cancer Genome Atlas and Molecular Taxonomy of Breast Cancer International Consortium, 17q22 amplification occurred in more than 20% of both pTNBC and mTNBC tumors, whereas 17q21 was more frequently amplified in mTNBC relative to pTNBC (16% v 8.1%, P = .015).

CONCLUSION

The 17q22 amplicon, detected by ctDNA, is associated with improved PFS with platinum chemotherapy in patients with mTNBC and warrants further investigation.

qRT-PCR-based DNA homologous recombination-associated 4-gene score predicts pathologic complete response to platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer

PURPOSE

Cumulative evidence suggests that the addition of platinum agents as neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) could improve the pathologic complete response (pCR) rate in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). We aimed to develop a DNA homologous recombination (HR)-associated gene expression score to predict tumor sensitivity to platinum-based NACT in TNBC.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort of 127 patients who were diagnosed with TNBC and received platinum-based NACT in Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center from 2012 to 2017 was included in this study. Using quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR), the expression levels of eight HR-associated genes were analyzed from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded core-needle biopsy samples obtained before NACT. A random forest model was built to estimate the weight of each gene expression level and clinicopathological factors. The training set was used to modulate parameters and select the best model. The performance of the final model was evaluated in the validation set.

RESULTS

A 4-gene (BRCA1, XRCC5, PARP1, and RAD51) scoring system was developed. TNBC patients with a higher score had a nearly fourfold likelihood of achieving pCR to platinum-based NACT compared with patients with a lower score [odds ratio (OR) = 3.878; P < 0.001]. At the cutoff value of - 2.644, the 4-gene scoring system showed high sensitivity in predicting pCR in the breast (93.0%) and pCR in the breast/axilla (91.8%), while at the cutoff value of - 1.969, the 4-gene score showed high specificity for pCR in the breast (85.7%) and pCR in the breast/axilla (80.8%).

CONCLUSION

The qRT-PCR-based 4-gene score has the potential to predict pCR to platinum-based NACT in TNBC.

TNBC: Potential Targeting of Multiple Receptors for a Therapeutic Breakthrough, Nanomedicine, and Immunotherapy

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous, recurring cancer associated with a high rate of metastasis, poor prognosis, and lack of therapeutic targets. Although target-based therapeutic options are approved for other cancers, only limited therapeutic options are available for TNBC. Cell signaling and receptor-specific targets are reportedly effective in patients with TNBC under specific clinical conditions. However, most of these cancers are unresponsive, and there is a requirement for more effective treatment modalities. Further, there is a lack of effective biomarkers that can distinguish TNBC from other BC subtypes. ER, PR, and HER2 help identify TNBC and are widely used to identify patients who are most likely to respond to diverse therapeutic strategies. In this review, we discuss the possible treatment options for TNBC based on its inherent subtype receptors and pathways, such as p53 signaling, AKT signaling, cell cycle regulation, DNA damage, and programmed cell death, which play essential roles at multiple stages of TNBC development. We focus on poly-ADP ribose polymerase 1, androgen receptor, vascular endothelial growth factor receptor, and epidermal growth factor receptor as well as the application of nanomedicine and immunotherapy in TNBC and discuss their potential applications in drug development for TNBC.

Platinum-Based Chemotherapy and Immunotherapy in Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Meta-Analysis and Indirect Treatment Comparison

BACKGROUND

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) comprises 15% of invasive breast cancers. Platinum-based chemotherapy and immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have been extensively researched in recent years as promising treatments in the neoadjuvant setting. However, clinical data is lacking in direct comparisons of these two treating regimens.

METHODS

We conducted an online search on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Online Library and key oncological meetings for available randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating ICIs or platinum drugs versus anthracyclines and taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy (AT-based NACT). Conventional meta-analyses were conducted separately, and then indirect comparisons for clinical efficacy and safety profile were performed between ICIs and platinum drugs using AT-based NACT as a common comparator.

RESULTS

Seven random controlled trials (RCTs) with 1,647 patients were included in the meta-analysis. The indirect comparison demonstrated that ICIs plus chemotherapy significantly improved pathological complete response (pCR) rate (p = 0.00445, OR, 1.78; 95%CI, 0.70-4.53), and decreased the adverse effect (AE) related discontinuance versus platinum-based chemotherapy (P = 0.00015; OR 0.46; 95%CI, 0.26-0.82).

CONCLUSION

ICIs plus chemotherapy showed increased pCR rate and decreased adverse effects compared with platinum-based chemotherapy in early TNBC. However, subgroup analysis and survival data to explore the proper patients for each treatment remains scarce. Therefore, further studies with powered direct comparisons of these two treating regimens are required.

Neoadjuvant approach as a platform for treatment personalization: focus on HER2-positive and triple-negative breast cancer

The neoadjuvant setting provides unquestionable clinical benefits for high-risk breast cancer (BC) patients, mainly in terms of expansion of locoregional treatment options and prognostic stratification. Additionally, it is also emerging as a strategical tool in the research field. In the present review, by focusing on HER2-positive and triple-negative subtypes, we examined the role of the neoadjuvant setting as a research platform to facilitate and rationalize the placement of escalation strategies, promote the adoption of biomarker-driven approaches for the investigation of de-escalated treatments, and foster the conduction of comprehensive translational analyses, thus ultimately aiming at pursuing treatment personalization. The solid prognostic role of pathologic complete response after neoadjuvant therapy, and its use as a surrogate endpoint to accelerate the drug approval process were discussed. In this context, available data on escalated treatment strategies capable of enhancing pathologic complete response (pCR) rate or improving prognosis of patients with residual disease (RD) after neoadjuvant treatment, were comprehensively reviewed. We also summarized evidence regarding the possibility of obtaining pCR with de-escalated strategies, with particular emphasis on the role of biomarker-driven approaches for patient selection. Pitfalls of the dichotomy of pCR/RD were also deepened, and data on alternative/complementary biomarkers with a possible clinical relevance in this regard were reviewed.

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy of Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Evaluation of Early Clinical Response, Pathological Complete Response Rates, and Addition of Platinum Salts Benefit Based on Real-World Evidence

Simple Summary

Neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) is the standard treatment for early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Achieving pathological complete response (pCR) is considered an essential prognostic factor with favorable long-term outcomes. The administration of NACT regimens with platinum salts is associated with a higher pCR rate. However, with unclear treatment guidelines and at the expense of a higher incidence of adverse events. Identifying patients and circumstances in which the benefits of platinum NACT outweigh inconveniences is still an ongoing challenge. Considering early clinical response (ECR) after the initial standard NACT cycles together with other suitable predictors could be useful to decide about the administration of platinum salts in clinical practice. The results of this large single institutional retrospective study of consecutive patients showed the significant role of adding platinum salts in older patients with high-proliferative early responded tumors and persisted lymph nodes involvement regardless of BRCA1/2 status.

Abstract

Pathological complete response (pCR) achievement is undoubtedly the essential goal of neoadjuvant therapy for breast cancer, directly affecting survival endpoints. This retrospective study of 237 triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients with a median follow-up of 36 months evaluated the role of adding platinum salts into standard neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT). After the initial four standard NACT cycles, early clinical response (ECR) was assessed and used to identify tumors and patients generally sensitive to NACT. BRCA1/2 mutation, smaller unifocal tumors, and Ki-67 ≥ 65% were independent predictors of ECR. The total pCR rate was 41%, the achievement of pCR was strongly associated with ECR (OR = 15.1, p < 0.001). According to multivariable analysis, the significant benefit of platinum NACT was observed in early responders ≥45 years, Ki-67 ≥ 65% and persisted lymph node involvement regardless of BRCA1/2 status. Early responders with pCR had a longer time to death (HR = 0.28, p < 0.001) and relapse (HR = 0.26, p < 0.001). The pCR was achieved in only 7% of non-responders. However, platinum salts favored non-responders’ survival outcomes without statistical significance. Toxicity was significantly often observed in patients with platinum NACT (p = 0.003) but not for grade 3/4 (p = 0.155). These results based on real-world evidence point to the usability of ECR in NACT management, especially focusing on the benefit of platinum salts.

Pathological complete response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, but not the addition of carboplatin, is associated with improved survival in Chilean triple negative breast cancer patients: a report of real world data

BACKGROUND

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death for Chilean women. About 11% of cases are triple-negative (TN) BC. These are characterised by poor prognosis, higher risk of early recurrence and visceral dissemination versus other BC subtypes. Current standard treatment for early-stage non-metastatic TNBC patients consists of neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) followed by surgery and radiotherapy. Pathological complete response (pCR) to NACT is associated with an increase in survival rates. In general, NACT and adjuvant regimens involve similar cytotoxic drugs. Recent studies have postulated that the use of platinum compounds in TNBC would increase response rates. However, their effects on patient survival remain uncertain.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We retrieved and analysed medical records from a total of 156 Chilean stage I-III TNBC female patients that received NACT and compared survival rates using carboplatin (Cb)-containing versus non-Cb-containing regimens at two health cancer centres.

RESULTS

Median age was 51 years (range: 24-81); 13.5% (n = 21) received Cb-containing regimens, 80.1% (n = 125) received sequential anthracyclines plus taxanes; 29.5% (n = 46) of the total group achieved pCR, 28% for the standard treatment and 35% (n = 8) for the Cb-containing group (p = 0.59). We confirmed pCR was associated with prolonged overall survival, invasive and distant disease-free survival (Log-rank p = 0.0236). But the addition of Cb was not associated with differences in survival measures (Log-rank p = 0.5216).

CONCLUSIONS

To the best of authors' knowledge, this is the first report on real-world data in the Chilean population assessing the effect of Cb-containing NACT in TNBC. The authors' results suggest no survival benefit by the addition of Cb to standard NACT. However, we confirm an increase in survival associated to pCR regardless of treatment.

Update on systemic treatment in early triple negative breast cancer

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is a heterogeneous disease representing about 15% of all breast cancers. TNBC are usually high-grade histological tumors, and are generally more aggressive and difficult to treat due to the lack of targeted therapies available, and chemotherapy remains the standard treatment. There is a close relationship between pathological complete response after chemotherapy treatment and higher rates of disease-free survival and overall survival. In this review of systemic treatment in early triple negative breast cancer, our purpose is to analyze and compare different therapies, as well as to highlight the novelties of treatment in this breast cancer subtype.

Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Pairwise and Network Meta-Analysis of Pathological Complete Response

We performed a pairwise and network meta-analysis to compare pathological complete response (pCR) among neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with triple-negative breast cancer. We searched PubMed for randomized clinical trials between January 1, 2000 and December 1, 2020. Abstracts from meetings were also searched. A frequentist random-effect model was applied to compare pCR and toxicities. The P-score was used to rank treatment effects. Nineteen trials with 16 treatments and 7794 patients were included. On the basis of SoC, the addition of carboplatin (OR = 1.82, 95% CI, 1.24 to 2.68, P < .01) and the addition of checkpoint inhibitors (OR = 1.69, 95% CI, 1.23 to 2.32, P < .01) increased pCR in pairwise meta-analysis; compared with paclitaxel, nab-paclitaxel did not improve pCR rates (OR = 1.81, 95% CI, .80 to 4.12, P = .16). The anthracycline-sparing regimen led to similar pCR compared with the anthracycline-containing regimen (OR = 1.50, 95% CI, .82 to 2.76, P = .19). In network meta-analysis, the addition of carboplatin plus a PD-1 inhibitor (pembrolizumab), carboplatin plus bevacizumab, and carboplatin plus veliparib ranked as the top three treatments for achieving pCR, with corresponding P-scores of .91, .84, and .72, respectively. Among patients with homologous recombination deficiency, the addition of carboplatin (OR = 1.31, 95% CI, .69 to 2.50, P = .41) or carboplatin plus PARP inhibitors (OR = 1.19, 95% CI, .58 to 2.47, P = .63) did not increase pCR. For triple-negative breast cancer, combining carboplatin with taxane-anthracycline-containing neoadjuvant chemotherapy could be the standard of care, and the combination containing checkpoint inhibitor is promising. However, their role in long-term oncologic outcome remains to be determined.

Olaparib monotherapy as primary treatment in unselected triple negative breast cancer

BACKGROUND

The antitumor efficacy of PARP inhibitors (PARPi) for breast cancer patients harboring germline BRCA1/2 (gBRCA1/2) mutations is well established. While PARPi monotherapy was ineffective in patients with metastatic triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) wild type for BRCA1/2, we hypothesized that PARPi may be effective in primary TNBCs without previous chemotherapy exposure.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In the phase II PETREMAC trial, patients with primary TNBC >2 cm received olaparib for up to 10 weeks before chemotherapy. Tumor biopsies collected before and after olaparib underwent targeted DNA sequencing (360 genes) and BRCA1 methylation analyses. In addition, BRCAness (multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification), PAM50 gene expression, RAD51 foci, tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) and PD-L1 analyses were performed on pretreatment samples.

RESULTS

The median pretreatment tumor diameter was 60 mm (range 25-112 mm). Eighteen out of 32 patients obtained an objective response (OR) to olaparib (56.3%). Somatic or germline mutations affecting homologous recombination (HR) were observed in 10/18 responders [OR 55.6%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 33.7-75.4] contrasting 1/14 non-responders (OR 7.1%; CI 1.3-31.5, P = 0.008). Among tumors without HR mutations, 6/8 responders versus 3/13 non-responders revealed BRCA1 hypermethylation (P = 0.03). Thus, 16/18 responders (88.9%, CI 67.2-96.9), in contrast to 4/14 non-responders (28.6%, CI 11.7-54.7, P = 0.0008), carried HR mutations and/or BRCA1 methylation. Excluding one gPALB2 and four gBRCA1/2 mutation carriers, 12/14 responders (85.7%, CI 60.1-96.0) versus 3/13 non-responders (23.1%, CI 8.2-50.3, P = 0.002) carried somatic HR mutations and/or BRCA1 methylation. In contrast to BRCAness signature or basal-like subtype, low RAD51 scores, high TIL or high PD-L1 expression all correlated to olaparib response.

CONCLUSION

Olaparib yielded a high clinical response rate in treatment-naïve TNBCs revealing HR deficiency, beyond germline HR mutations.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02624973.

Comprehensive Genomic Profile of Heterogeneous Long Follow-Up Triple-Negative Breast Cancer and Its Clinical Characteristics Shows DNA Repair Deficiency Has Better Prognostic

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a marked diversity at the molecular level, which promotes a clinical heterogeneity that further complicates treatment. We performed a detailed whole exome sequencing profile of 29 Mexican patients with long follow-up TNBC to identify genomic alterations associated with overall survival (OS), disease-free survival (DFS), and pathologic complete response (PCR), with the aim to define their role as molecular predictive factors of treatment response and prognosis. We detected 31 driver genes with pathogenic mutations in TP53 (53%), BRCA1/2 (27%), CDKN1B (9%), PIK3CA (9%), and PTEN (9%), and 16 operative mutational signatures. Moreover, tumors with mutations in BRCA1/2 showed a trend of sensitivity to platinum salts. We found an association between deficiency in DNA repair and surveillance genes and DFS. Across all analyzed tumors we consistently found a heterogeneous molecular complexity in terms of allelic composition and operative mutational processes, which hampered the definition of molecular traits with clinical utility. This work contributes to the elucidation of the global molecular alterations of TNBC by providing accurate genomic data that may help forthcoming studies to improve treatment and survival. This is the first study that integrates genomic alterations with a long follow-up of clinical variables in a Latin American population that is an underrepresented ethnicity in most of the genomic studies.

How Effective is Neoadjuvant Endocrine Therapy (NET) in Downstaging the Axilla and Achieving Breast-Conserving Surgery?

BACKGROUND

Neoadjuvant endocrine therapy (NET) is effective in downstaging large hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancers and increasing rates of breast-conserving surgery (BCS), but data regarding nodal pathologic complete response (pCR) are sparse. We reported nodal and breast downstaging rates with NET, and compared axillary response rates following NET and neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC).

METHODS

Consecutive stage I-III breast cancer patients treated with NET and surgery from January 2009 to December 2019 were identified from a prospectively maintained database. Nodal pCR rates were compared between biopsy-proven node-positive patients treated with NET, and HR+/HER2- patients treated with NAC from November 2013 to July 2019.

RESULTS

127 cancers treated with NET and 338 with NAC were included. NET recipients were older, more likely to have lobular and lower-grade tumors, and higher HR expression. With NET, the nodal pCR rate was 11% (4/38) of biopsy-proven cases, and the breast pCR rate was 1.6% (2/126). Nodal-dowstaging rates with NET and NAC were not significantly different (11% vs 18%; P = 0.37). Patients achieving nodal pCR with NET versus NAC were older (median age 70 vs 50, P = 0.004) and had greater progesterone receptor (PR) expression (85% vs 13%, P = 0.031), respectively. Of patients not candidates for BCS due to a large tumor relative to breast size, 36/47 (77%) became BCS-eligible with NET (median PR expression 55% vs 5% in those remaining ineligible, P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Although nodal pCR is more frequent than breast pCR, NET is more likely to de-escalate breast surgery than axillary surgery. However, with a nodal pCR rate of 11%, NET remains an option for downstaging node-positive patients without clear indications for NAC.

Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy for triple-negative breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is associated with higher aggressiveness and mortality than hormone-positive breast cancer because of the lack of approved therapeutic targets. Patients with TNBC who attain a pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have improved survival. Platinum-based agents show promising activity in TNBC; however, their use remains controversial. We conducted a meta-analysis to assess the role of platinum-based agents in neoadjuvant chemotherapy in patients with TNBC.

Methods

We performed an extensive literature search of the Pubmed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. We calculated pooled odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for the identified studies.

Results

Eight randomized controlled trials with 1345 patients were included in the analysis. The addition of platinum-based agents improved pCR compared with neoadjuvant therapy based on anthracyclines, cyclophosphamide, taxanes, and fluorouracil (49.1% vs. 35.9%; OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.23–2.86). Hematological adverse events were similar in both groups, except for more thrombocytopenia in the platinum-based group (OR: 7.96, 95% CI: 3.18–19.93).

Conclusion

The addition of platinum-based agents to neoadjuvant chemotherapy improved pCR rates in patients with TNBC, with a slight increase in hematological toxicities. Platinum-based agents might thus be an accessible and economically viable option in patients with TNBC.

Neo-adjuvant therapy for triple-negative breast cancer: Insights from a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The best regimen of neo-adjuvant therapy for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is unknown. Recent studies have shown promising data that adding carboplatin or pembrolizumab improves the rate of pathologic complete response (pCR) in TNBC. Therefore, we performed a network meta-analysis to define the overall, most effective, neo-adjuvant systemic therapy for TNBC.

METHODS

We searched for studies comparing different neo-adjuvant regimens in patients with TNBC. We performed a network meta-analysis comparing the regimens using the random-effects model. We focused on anthracycline, bevacizumab, pembrolizumab, and platinum salts (Pl). All study regimens contained a taxane. We analyzed the rate of pCR (ypT0/is, N0), and the incidence of febrile neutropenia, grade 3-grade 4 thrombocytopenia, nausea/vomiting, and diarrhea.

RESULTS

We identified a total of 13 randomized control trials for this analysis. We compared ten different classes of regimens. We found that regimens containing Pl were significantly superior to non-PI-containing regimens for the rate of pCR. Similarly, pembrolizumab-containing regimens were associated with significantly higher pCR rates. Regimens containing bevacizumab significantly increased the rate of pCR as well. However, it was equivocal as to whether the addition of Pl to pembrolizumab-containing regimen increases pCR rates. Adding anthracycline into the regimen did not show an improved rate of pCR. In the safety analysis, regimens containing Pl were associated with a significantly higher incidence of febrile neutropenia and grade 3-grade 4 thrombocytopenia. The regimen containing anthracycline plus bevacizumab plus Pl was associated with a higher risk of gastrointestinal adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS

For TNBC, regimens containing bevacizumab, pembrolizumab, or Pl are most effective in terms of pCR rates, though it is unclear whether combining all these medications has the greatest efficacy. Additionally, the benefit of using anthracycline in the neo-adjuvant therapy regimen for TNBC is not apparent, which may warrant a further head-to-head comparison.

Optimal Systemic Treatment for Early Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

BACKGROUND

Approximately 10-15% of all breast tumors are triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). TNBC have a higher risk of relapse and distant metastases compared to other subtypes. The optimal systemic management of TNBC according to national and international guidelines is discussed herein.

SUMMARY

Anthracycline/taxane-based chemotherapy for patients with TNBC either in the neoadjuvant (NACT) or the adjuvant setting is considered standard of care. Exceptions are small tumors and a low-risk histology, in which chemotherapy can be spared. Dose-dense therapy is more effective in preventing recurrence and increasing survival. The use of nab-paclitaxel instead of a solvent-based taxane can lead to higher pathological complete response (pCR) rates and better outcomes. Platinum agents are effective in increasing pCR when added to anthracycline/taxane-based chemotherapy at the cost of increased toxicity. Long-term outcome data are lacking. In patients without a pCR, capecitabine leads to improved outcomes.

KEY MESSAGES

The standard treatment approach of TNBC is anthracycline/taxane-based chemotherapy, preferably within the NACT setting. Dose-dense schedules as well as platinum should be considered in the NACT setting. For patients without a pCR, capecitabine is an option to improve the outcome. The role of nab-paclitaxel is under debate. In case of immunogenic tumors, checkpoint inhibitors are promising new agents that merit further investigation.

Neoadjuvant Treatment for Triple Negative Breast Cancer: Recent Progresses and Challenges

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer with historically poor outcomes, primarily due to the lack of effective targeted therapies. The tumor molecular heterogeneity of TNBC has been well recognized, yet molecular subtype driven therapy remains lacking. While neoadjuvant anthracycline and taxane-based chemotherapy remains the standard of care for early stage TNBC, the optimal chemotherapy regimen is debatable. The addition of carboplatin to anthracycline, cyclophosphamide, and taxane (ACT) regimen is associated with improved complete pathologic response (pCR). Immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) combinations significantly increase pCR in TNBC. Increased tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TILs) or the presence of DNA repair deficiency (DRD) mutation is associated with increased pCR. Other targets, such as poly-ADP-ribosyl polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) and Phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase/Protein Kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (PI3K-AKT-mTOR) pathway inhibitors, are being evaluated in the neoadjuvant setting. This review examines recent progress in neoadjuvant therapy of TNBC, including platinum, ICI, PARPi, phosphatidylinositol-4,5-bisphosphate 3-kinase catalytic subunit alpha (PIK3CA) pathway targeted therapies, and novel tumor microenvironment (TME) targeted therapy, in addition to biomarkers for the prediction of pCR.

Early stage triple negative breast cancer: Management and future directions

Triple negative breast cancer is the most aggressive kind of breast cancer with high risk of recurrences and poor outcomes. Systemic chemotherapy has significantly improved long term outcomes in early stage patients; however, metastatic recurrences still develop in a significant number of patients. Anthracycline and taxane based chemotherapy regimens are standard of care for early stage patients. Neoadjuvant treatment is preferred due to the ability to assess pathologic responses providing important prognostic information and guidance in adjuvant therapy decisions. Carboplatin addition to the anthracycline and taxane backbone is associated with a significant improvement in pathologic complete response but is associated with more toxicity. Understanding the immune microenvironment of triple negative disease is an exciting field and immune checkpoint inhibitors have shown great promise in further improving response rates in early stage patients. Patients with residual disease after neoadjuvant chemotherapy have a significantly higher risk of recurrence compared to those with complete responses. Adjuvant capecitabine for these high-risk patients have shown significant improvement in long term outcomes and is routinely used in this setting. Given the heterogeneity within triple negative tumors, molecular subtypes with variable genomic makeup and chemo sensitivities have been identified and will likely aid in further clinical developmental therapeutics.

The Landscape of Targeted Therapies in TNBC

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) constitutes the most aggressive molecular subtype among breast tumors. Despite progress on the underlying tumor biology, clinical outcomes for TNBC unfortunately remain poor. The median overall survival for patients with metastatic TNBC is approximately eighteen months. Chemotherapy is the mainstay of treatment while there is a growing body of evidence that targeted therapies may be on the horizon with poly-ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) and immune check-point inhibitors already established in the treatment paradigm of TNBC. A large number of novel therapeutic agents are being evaluated for their efficacy in TNBC. As novel therapeutics are now incorporated into clinical practice, it is clear that tumor heterogeneity and clonal evolution can result to de novo or acquired treatment resistance. As precision medicine and next generation sequencing is part of cancer diagnostics, tailored treatment approaches based on the expression of molecular markers are currently being implemented in clinical practice and clinical trial design. The scope of this review is to highlight the most relevant current knowledge regarding underlying molecular profile of TNBC and its potential application in clinical practice.

Neoadjuvant therapy for triple-negative breast cancer: potential predictive biomarkers of activity and efficacy of platinum chemotherapy, PARP- and immune-checkpoint-inhibitors

INTRODUCTION

Despite recent advances in the molecular characterization of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), the standard treatment for early-stage TNBC is represented by the historically used anthracycline and taxane-based chemotherapy. In this modern era of precision medicine, several new therapeutic strategies and novel agents have been investigated in the neoadjuvant setting of TNBC, in order to individualize treatment.

AREAS COVERED

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the currently available evidence regarding the activity and efficacy of platinum agents, PARP- and immune-checkpoint-inhibitors for the neoadjuvant treatment of TNBC, highlighting the available data on potential predictive biomarkers of response or resistance to such treatments.

EXPERT OPINION

The genomic and immune landscape of TNBC has encouraged the exploration of drugs that interfere with the DNA repair mechanism and that modulate immune response. Overall, these drugs seem to improve the pCR rate in TNBC, despite preliminary and heterogeneous results. Taking into account the economic issues and the side effects of these drugs, it is crucial to further explore the potential predictive role of BRCA mutational status and homologous recombination deficiency score, for platinum agents and PARP-inhibitors, and tumor infiltrating lymphocytes and other immune biomarkers for checkpoint inhibitors, respectively.

Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

The role of platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients is highly controversial and it is not endorsed by current guidelines. Our meta-analysis aimed to better elucidate its activity, efficacy and safety.

Material and methods

A systematic search of Medline, Web of Science and conferences proceedings up to 30 October 2017 was carried out to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating platinum-based versus platinum-free neoadjuvant chemotherapy in TNBC patients. Using the fixed and random effects models, pooled odds ratios (ORs) and hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for pathological complete response (pCR, defined as ypT0/is pN0), event-free survival (EFS), overall survival (OS) and grade 3 and 4 adverse events (AEs: neutropenia, anemia, thrombocytopenia and neuropathy).

Results

Nine RCTs (N = 2109) were included. Overall, platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy significantly increased pCR rate from 37.0% to 52.1% (OR 1.96, 95% CI 1.46-2.62, P < 0.001). Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy remained significantly associated with increased pCR rate also after restricting the analysis to the three RCTs (N = 611) that used the same standard regimen in both groups of weekly paclitaxel (with or without carboplatin) followed by anthracycline and cyclophosphamide (OR 2.53, 95% CI 1.37-4.66, P = 0.003). Conversely, among the 96 BRCA-mutated patients included in two RCTs, the addition of carboplatin was not associated with significantly increased pCR rate (OR 1.17, 95% CI 0.51-2.67, P = 0.711). Two RCTs (N = 748) reported survival outcomes: no significant difference in EFS (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.49-1.06, P = 0.094) and OS (HR 0.86, 95% CI 0.46-1.63, P = 0.651) was observed. A significant higher risk of grade 3 and 4 hematological AEs, with no increased risk of grade 3 and 4 neuropathy was observed with platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Conclusion

In TNBC patients, platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy is associated with significantly increased pCR rates at the cost of worse hematological toxicities. Platinum-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy may be considered an option in TNBC patients.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018080042.

Triple negative breast cancer and platinum-based systemic treatment: a meta-analysis and systematic review

BACKGROUND

Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) represents 15-20% of breast cancers. Due to its heterogeneity and high rates of relapse, there is a need to optimize treatment efficacy. Platinum chemotherapy is still controversial and currently not recommended as first-line treatment for TNBC. Recent studies have shown promising activity of this regimen. This study was done to evaluate the effect of platinum chemotherapy on pathologic complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant treatment for early TNBC and progression-free survival (PFS) in metastatic TNBC.

METHODS

A systematic search of Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, Clinical trials databases and hand search were done to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the use of platinum-based chemotherapy in adults with TNBC. Studies were appraised using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Using the random effects model, pooled Odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) for pCR, and Hazard Ratios (HRs) with 95%CI for PFS were analyzed.

RESULTS

Eleven RCTs were included (N = 2946). Platinum-based chemotherapy showed pCR benefit of 40%vs27% (OR1.75,95% CI 1.46-2.62,p < 0.0001) in the neo-adjuvant setting. Subgroup analysis showed increased pCR rates (44.6%vs27.8%) with platinum plus taxane regimen (p < 0.0001). In metastatic TNBC, three RCTs were analyzed (N = 531), platinum treatment did not show PFS advantage (HR1.16,95%CI 0.90-1.49,p = 0.24).

CONCLUSION

Platinum chemotherapy is associated with increased pCR rates in TNBC, hence it is a viable option for patients in the neoadjuvant setting. Subgroup analysis showed that the combination of platinum and taxanes (Carboplatin/Paclitaxel) improved pCR. However, no PFS advantage was seen in metastatic TNBC. Given the current conflicting data in metastatic TNBC, further exploration with additional powered studies is needed.

Efficacy and safety of neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimens for triple-negative breast cancer: a network meta-analysis

Different neoadjuvant chemotherapies are available for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Here, we performed a network meta-analysis to evaluate the pathological complete response (pCR) benefit and safety of treatment regimens. Pairwise and Bayesian network meta-analyses were performed to compare direct and indirect evidence, respectively. Twenty-three studies involving 12 regimens namely standard chemotherapeutic agents, bevacizumab (B)-, platinum salts (P)-, B plus P (BP)-, poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (Pi)-, P plus Pi (PPi)-, capecitabine (Ca)-, gemcitabine (Ge)-, zoledronic acid (Za)-, everolimus (E)-, P plus E (PE)-, and gefitinib (G)-containing regimens. The results showed that P-, B-, PPi-, and Za-containing regimens achieved higher pCR than standard chemotherapeutic agents. BP-containing regimens had a better pCR than B-containing regimens. In indirect comparisons, Za-, BP-, P-, and B-containing regimens were the top four strategies with the highest probability for pCR. Benefit-risk analysis showed that B-containing regimens had the highest acceptability of being the best treatment for better pCR achievement with fewer SAEs. The addition of P, B, BP, PPi, and Za to standard chemotherapeutic agents enhanced the pCR, but a balance between efficacy and safety should be carefully considered. B-containing regimens might be the best choice for neoadjuvant chemotherapy due to its better efficacy and tolerability.

Inclusion of Platinum Agents in Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy Regimens for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Patients: Development of GRADE (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) Recommendation by the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM)

In the absence of identified therapeutic targets, chemotherapy is the main systemic treatment option for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The achievement of a pathological complete response (pCR) after neoadjuvant chemotherapy leads to good outcome, whereas patients not achieving a pCR are at high risk of relapse. Various trials have evaluated the inclusion of platinum in neoadjuvant chemotherapy regimens for TNBC, leading to non-univocal results. The panel of the Italian Association of Medical Oncology (AIOM) Guidelines on Breast Cancer developed a clinical recommendation on the addition of platinum to anthracycline/taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy for TNBC by using the Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) methodology and the Evidence to Decision framework (EtD). Five studies were eligible. The panel identified the following outcomes of benefit: pCR (critical), disease/event-free survival (DFS/EFS, critical), and overall survival (OS, critical). The panel identified febrile neutropenia (critical), serious adverse events (critical), anemia grade 3-4 (important), thrombocytopenia grade 3-4 (important) as outcomes of harms. The probability of pCR was higher in the platinum-based chemotherapy group versus control group (RR = 1.45, 95%CI 1.28-1.64); however, no impact on long-term outcome was observed. Neoadjuvant treatment regimens containing platinum resulted in a non-significant increase in the risk of febrile neutropenia and in a significant increase in the risk serious adverse events, G3-G4 anemia and G3-G4 thrombocytopenia: 11.3% versus 0.8%, RR = 15.66 (95%CI 6.38-38.44). The panel judged uncertain/favorable the benefit/harms balance. The panel's final recommendation was conditional in favor of the inclusion of platinum in anthracycline/taxane-based neoadjuvant regimens for TNBC.