Dr. Yardley on Challenges With Resistance Mechanisms in HR+/HER2- Breast Cancer

Denise Yardley, MD, senior investigator, Sarah Cannon Research Institute, discusses challenges with ​resistance mechanisms in hormone receptor (HR)–positive, HER2-negative breast cancer. 

​Resistance to CDK4/6 inhibitors remains a significant challenge in HR-positive, HER2-negative breast cancer, says Yardley. Learning how to characterize and predict resistance early on is of critical importance. 

Notably, several ongoing studies are trying to identify sensitivity and resistance biomarkers, ​Yardley says. However, estrogen receptor positivity remains the most established biomarker for benefit. 

In addition, the field is looking for ways to identify patients who may have intrinsic resistance, ​resistance after 6 months, or acquired resistance through Rb, PI3K, and cyclin E, Yardley concludes.