BET inhibitors as novel therapeutic agents in breast cancer

Abstract

Tumoral cells not only depend on oncogenic abnormalities to maintain its malignant phenotype but on non-oncogenic vulnerabilities. Targeting epigenomics can modify specific cellular functions required for malignant transformation. The Bromodomain (BRD) family mediates their effect by recruiting proteins of the transcription machinery, recognizing acetylated-lysine residues in nucleosomal histones. Bromodomain and extra-terminal (BET) inhibitors have shown to produce growth inhibition in several tumors through the inhibition of the expression of several transcription factors. In this review we will discuss the current knowledge regarding BET inhibitors in breast cancer. Recent data demonstrates their antiproliferative effect in several cancer subtypes, including the triple negative subtype, or when combined with cell signaling inhibitors. We will also describe options for therapeutic combinations or potential mechanisms of resistance, with special emphasis on their future clinical development.