Invasive Breast Cancer
Invasive breast cancer is a complex and multifaceted disease that continues to pose significant challenges in the field of oncology. Characterized by the infiltration of malignant cells beyond the myoepithelial and basement membrane layers, invasive breast cancer allows these cells to invade the surrounding breast stroma. At Alfa Cytology, our team of experienced biologists work with you to develop breast cancer therapeutics.
Introduction to Invasive Breast Cancer
Invasive breast cancer remains a significant public health concern, with an estimated 2.3 million new cases and 684,000 deaths worldwide in 2020. The incidence and mortality rates vary across different regions, with developed countries generally reporting higher incidence but lower mortality compared to developing countries. In the United States, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women, with an estimated 284,200 new cases and 44,130 deaths in 2021. As the complexity and heterogeneity of invasive breast cancer continue to pose significant challenges in the field of oncology, the development of targeted therapeutic molecules has become increasingly crucial.
Fig.1 Distribution of invasive breast cancer cases by the age at diagnosis for each race/ethnicity cohort according to 2014-2017 SEER 21 data. (Hendrick R. E., et al. 2021)
Clinical Trials for Invasive Breast Cancer
Invasive breast cancer encompasses a diverse spectrum of subtypes, each with its own distinct molecular signatures and clinical characteristics. This heterogeneity poses a significant challenge, as it requires a tailored approach to treatment. Researchers are actively involved in several clinical trials exploring innovative approaches to the treatment of invasive breast cancer.
| NCT | Therapeutics | Descriptions | Phase |
| NCT02077569 | AZD5363 | AKT Pathway Inhabitor | |
| NCT03564782 | PVSRIPO | PVSRIPO is the live attenuated, oral (Sabin) serotype 1 poliovirus vaccine containing a heterologous internal ribosomal entry site (IRES) derived from the human rhinovirus type 2 (HRV2). | |
| NCT01088893 | Everolimus | mTOR Inhibition |
Our Services
Alfa Cytology, a leading preclinical CRO, offers a comprehensive suite of services to support research and development efforts in invasive breast cancer. Our expertise extends across the entire drug discovery and development pipeline, including in vitro assays, in vivo models, biomarker analysis, and specialized testing capabilities. We collaborate closely with academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and biotechnology firms to design and execute tailored preclinical studies that provide valuable insights and accelerate the progress of innovative therapies.
Alfa Cytology is committed to providing comprehensive solutions for different invasive breast cancers.
Case Study
Establishment of a 4T1 Orthotopic Model and In Vivo Evaluation of Active Fraction A
- Model Introduction
The 4T1 orthotopic breast cancer model is a well-established immunocompetent preclinical platform for studying triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). As one of the few models that spontaneously metastasize to distant sites such as lungs, it closely recapitulates the progression of human stage IV metastatic breast cancer, making it particularly valuable for evaluating anti-tumor and anti-metastatic drug candidates.
- Model Information
- Model: 4T1 Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
- Cancer Type: Invasive Breast Cancer, Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (TNBC)
- Host Mouse Strain: BALB/c Mice
- Age: 5 Weeks
- Cell Line Origin: 4T1 Murine Breast Cancer Cells.
- Molecular Profile: Highly metastatic; Triple-negative (ER-/PR-/HER2-).
- Weight: 15-20 g
- Model Construction
The 4T1 orthotopic model was established by injecting 7 × 105 4T1 cells in PBS into the subcutaneous tissue of the second left mammary fat pad of SPF female BALB/c mice. Tumor formation was typically palpable within 6-7 days post-inoculation, confirming successful model establishment.
- In Vivo Efficacy Evaluation
This case employed the established 4T1 orthotopic model to systematically evaluate the anti-tumor efficacy of the active fraction A. Treatment was administered via oral gavage daily for 21 consecutive days following tumor formation, with a comprehensive assessment of therapeutic effects.
- Significant Tumor Growth Inhibition: The active fraction A treatment resulted in potent, dose-dependent suppression of primary tumor growth, demonstrated by reduced tumor volume and weight compared to the control group (Fig. A, B).
- Induction of Tumor Cell Apoptosis: The active fraction A significantly induced apoptosis in 4T1 tumor cells. TUNEL and DAPI staining results demonstrated that the active fraction A treatment caused dose-dependent DNA fragmentation and chromatin condensation, with the high-dose group showing even stronger pro-apoptotic effects than the positive control drug (Fig. C).
Fig. 2 Effects of active component A on tumor size and growth in 4T1 tumor-bearing mice. (A) Tumour volume. *p < 0.05, **p< 0.01 vs Vehicle (n = 8). (B) Tumour weight. *p < 0.05, **p< 0.01 vs Vehicle (n = 8). (Source: Alfa Cytology)
As the field of oncology continues to evolve, Alfa Cytology remains at the forefront of innovative treatment development for invasive breast cancer. Through integrated approaches, cutting-edge preclinical models and biomarker-driven strategies, we are committed to advancing this critical area of cancer research. By collaborating with Alfa Cytology, clients gain access to a comprehensive suite of services tailored to the unique needs of invasive breast cancer research and development. If you are interested in our service, please contact us.
Reference
- Hendrick R. E., Monticciolo D. L., and et al. Age distributions of breast cancer diagnosis and mortality by race and ethnicity in US women. Cancer, 2021, 127(23): 4384-4392.