New Radiosensitisers for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype, which has significantly poorer prognosis and a higher risk of relapse compared to other subtypes. Based on genetic profiling, some TNBC patients benefit from targeted precision medicines such as PARP inhibitors, though even these benefits are limited.

The use of combination therapies can improve patient outcomes. This involves developing new drugs that target tumours and which combine synergistically with existing treatments, such as radiotherapy. Certain ‘radiosensitising’ strategies are already in use, though these involve the use of traditional chemotherapies first employed decades ago. Patients undergoing these treatments suffer significant side effects.

The aim of this project is to develop a potent radiosensitiser drug with an in-built PARP inhibitor activity, for use in TNBC. We will utilise a molecular design principle that incorporates all the criteria required for successful radiosensitisation and provide a detailed biological analysis of these compounds, in combination with radiation, to identify the drugs with the greatest clinical promise.