Scientists Discover Beta-Blockers Could Help Fight Triple-Negative Breast Cancer (Image Source: People.com)
A common drug used to manage heart conditions may soon prove to be a breakthrough in cancer treatment. New research has found that beta-blockers medicines typically prescribed for high blood pressure and heart rhythm problems could play a vital role in slowing down one of the most aggressive and difficult-to-treat types of breast cancer. Scientists say this discovery may open the door to new, affordable, and widely accessible treatment options for patients who currently have limited choices.
New findings published in Science Signaling reveal that beta-blockers are linked to “longer relapse-free survival” in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
New findings published in Science Signaling reveal that beta-blockers are linked to “longer relapse-free survival” in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
The American Cancer Society explains that TNBC is negative for estrogen and progesterone receptors and produces very little HER2 protein. Because of this, it has fewer treatment options, grows and spreads more quickly, and often carries a worse prognosis compared to other breast cancers.
Researchers discovered that stress hormones can activate a receptor called beta-2 adrenoceptor. Once triggered, this receptor encourages two other molecules to accelerate cancer spread. The entire process is driven by a gene known as HOXC12.
Beta-blockers, however, can switch off the HOXC12 gene, stopping the tumor from progressing.
Beta-blockers are most often prescribed for heart and circulatory problems such as high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, and chest pain. The Cleveland Clinic notes that they work by slowing down the heart rate and lowering blood pressure. About 1 in 10 Americans take beta-blockers, making them one of the most widely used medications in the United States.
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Associate Professor Michelle Halls of Monash University explained in a press release, “If HOXC12 is found to be present in a TNBC patient, they could be an ideal candidate for beta blocker therapy.”
Lead study author Terrance Lam added:
“Ultimately, this exciting discovery could pave the way to improving survival outcomes in people with TNBC when HOXC12 is found to be present. TNBC is an aggressive cancer which can be especially challenging to treat and identifying new treatment pathways are important.”
He further emphasized, “We believe further studies are urgently needed to determine if HOXC12 can be used to identify patients who will benefit from beta blocker therapy at the time of diagnosis and stop tumor spread, thus increasing survival rates.”
The study offers hope for patients with TNBC, a cancer that has long been difficult to treat. If confirmed by future research, beta-blockers already affordable and widely available could provide a new treatment pathway to slow tumor growth and improve survival rates.
