TROP-2 Targeted Therapies Show Promise in Breast cancer Treatment
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New research presented at the 24th annual International Congress on the Future of Breast Cancer® East highlights the growing role of TROP-2 targeted therapies in treating advanced breast cancer. The conference, scheduled for July 11-12, 2025, in New York, will feature experts discussing the latest advancements, including the clinical utility of monitoring minimal residual disease and the future of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) in breast cancer treatment.
Approved TROP-2 Directed Therapies
Currently, two TROP-2 directed antibodies have secured FDA approval for treating breast cancer: sacituzumab govitecan-hziy (Trodelvy) and datopotamab deruxtecan-dlnk (Datroway). These therapies target the TROP-2 protein, which is often overexpressed in breast cancer cells, allowing for more precise and effective treatment. According to the National Cancer Institute, antibody-drug conjugates like these are designed to deliver cytotoxic drugs directly to cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Sacituzumab Govitecan: Approvals and Ongoing Research
Sacituzumab govitecan has received FDA approval for treating patients with unresectable locally advanced or metastatic triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) who have undergone two or more prior therapies. It is also approved for pretreated metastatic hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer FDA.An early positive trend was observed for overall survival (OS) with the combination of sacituzumab govitecan and pembrolizumab in PD-L1 positive metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, and ongoing studies continue to monitor OS outcomes.
Did You Know? Sacituzumab govitecan was initially granted accelerated approval by the FDA in April 2020 for metastatic triple-negative breast cancer, marking a significant advancement in treatment options for this aggressive form of cancer.
The phase 3 ASCENT-05/AFT-65 OptimICE-RD/GBG 119/NSABP B-63 trial (NCT05633654) is currently evaluating sacituzumab plus pembrolizumab versus pembrolizumab with or without capecitabine in patients with residual TNBC. This trial involves 1514 patients randomly assigned to receive either 10 mg/kg of sacituzumab and 200 mg of pembrolizumab, or 200 mg of pembrolizumab with or without 1000 mg/m2 of capecitabine. The primary endpoint is invasive disease-free survival, with secondary endpoints including overall survival, recurrence-free survival, safety, and tolerability.
Datopotamab Deruxtecan: Efficacy in HR-positive, HER2-negative Breast Cancer
Datopotamab deruxtecan is indicated for patients with unresectable or metastatic hormone receptor-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer National Cancer Institute. The approval was based on findings from the phase 3 TROPION-Breast01 study (NCT05104866), which demonstrated a median progression-free survival (PFS) of 6.9 months in the datopotamab deruxtecan arm compared to 4.9 months in the chemotherapy arm (HR, 0.63; 95% CI, 0.52-0.76; P < .0001). While the median overall survival (OS) was similar between the two arms (18.6 months vs. 18.3 months),the confirmed objective response rate was higher in the datopotamab deruxtecan arm (36% vs. 23%).
| Outcome | Datopotamab Deruxtecan | Chemotherapy |
|---|---|---|
| Median PFS | 6.9 months | 4.9 months |
| Median OS | 18.6 months | 18.3 months |
| Objective Response Rate | 36% | 23% |
Sacituzumab Tirumotecan: A Promising Investigational ADC
Sacituzumab tirumotecan,an investigational ADC,is currently undergoing evaluation in a phase 3 study (NCT05347134) for patients with advanced or metastatic TNBC. This ADC consists of a TROP-2 targeting monoclonal antibody, sacituzumab, and a cytotoxic payload from the topoisomerase I inhibitor class. Interim analysis showed that sacituzumab tirumotecan demonstrated a 69% reduction in risk of progression or death (HR,0.31; 95% CI, 0.22-0.45; P < .00001), with a median PFS of 5.7 months compared to 2.3 months in the control arm.
Pro Tip: When evaluating new cancer therapies, consider both progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) to get a comprehensive understanding of the treatment’s effectiveness.
The Evolving Landscape of Breast Cancer Treatment
The progress and approval of TROP-2 targeted therapies represent a significant shift in the treatment paradigm for breast cancer. Traditional chemotherapy frequently enough comes with severe side effects and can be less effective in targeting cancer cells specifically. These new ADCs offer a more targeted approach, perhaps improving outcomes and quality of life for patients. The ongoing research and clinical trials are crucial for further refining these therapies and expanding their application to different subtypes of breast cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common side effects of TROP-2 targeted therapies?
Common side effects can vary depending on the specific therapy but may include nausea, fatigue, hair loss, and low blood cell counts. It’s vital to discuss potential side effects with yoru healthcare provider.
How do TROP-2 targeted therapies compare to traditional chemotherapy?
TROP-2 targeted therapies are designed to be more selective in targeting cancer cells, potentially leading to fewer side effects compared to traditional chemotherapy, which can affect both healthy and cancerous cells.
Are TROP-2 targeted therapies a cure for breast cancer?
Currently, TROP-2 targeted therapies are not considered a cure for breast cancer, but they can substantially improve outcomes, such as progression-free survival and overall survival, in certain patients.
With multiple agents approved and others under evaluation,the future of breast cancer treatment looks promising. What are your thoughts on the potential of ADCs in oncology? How can we ensure equitable access to these innovative therapies?
Disclaimer: This article provides details about recent developments in breast cancer treatment and is not intended as medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
