Novel clinical potential of poly (ADP‑ribose) polymerase inhibitors in triple‑negative breast cancer: Mechanistic insights and clinical applications (Review)

Abstract

Breast cancer is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors worldwide, and triple‑negative breast cancer (TNBC) presents a major therapeutic challenge due to the lack of effective targeted treatment options. Poly (ADP‑ribose) polymerase (PARP) plays a critical role in DNA damage repair, and its inhibitors have shown signifi‑ cant therapeutic efficacy in patients with TNBC exhibiting breast cancer susceptibility gene (BRCA) mutations. The present review aimed to analyze the molecular mechanisms of cell death induced by DNA damage related to PAR and PARP, thoroughly exploring the role of PARP in regulatory pathways. Additionally, it intended to highlight clinical trials and therapeutic outcomes of PARP inhibitors currently used in TNBC treatment. In particular, the current review delves into the mechanisms of drug resistance, such as BRCA mutation reversion and PARP protein trapping, and examines potential strategies to overcome PARP inhibitor resistance in the future. Ultimately, the present study aims to offer novel perspectives and research directions for further optimizing the application of PARP inhibitors in TNBC therapy.