Androgen Receptor Expression and Selective Modulation in Breast Cancer Subtypes

Background

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy in women and remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The androgen receptor (AR) is expressed across several breast cancer subtypes, with evidence suggesting tumor-suppressive effects in estrogen receptor-positive tumors and tumor-promoting roles in AR-positive triple-negative breast cancer. Selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) may represent promising therapeutic agents, offering AR pathway modulation with fewer side effects compared to classical androgens.

Methods

Breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, BT-549, TD-47, SKBR-3) and the non-tumorigenic control HBL-100 were analyzed for AR expression and modulation. Cell viability was measured using MTT assays, AR mRNA levels were quantified by qRT-PCR, and AR protein expression/localization was investigated via immunofluorescence microscopy. All experiments were performed in triplicate, and statistical analyses were applied to assess treatment effects.

Results

Initial analyses confirm AR expression across multiple breast cancer cell lines. Differential modulation of AR signaling through selective androgen receptor modulators compared to standard treatments is being evaluated. Data collection and statistical analyses are ongoing, and final results are expected to be available by the time of the conference.

Discussion

Our preliminary findings support AR as a relevant biomarker in breast cancer and suggest SARMs as potential therapeutic agents in selected subtypes. Further analysis will provide comprehensive insights into AR modulation and its translational implications. Full results will be presented at the conference.