Denosumab for the treatment of bone metastases in breast cancer: evidence and opinion.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Denosumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody, targets the receptor activator of nuclear factor-kappaB (RANK) ligand, a protein essential for osteoclast differentiation, activity and survival. Loss of osteoclasts from the bone surface reduces bone turnover and bone loss in malignant and benign diseases. In breast cancer, bone metastases are frequently observed; cancer treatment-induced bone loss (CTIBL) may result as a consequence of endocrine treatment or chemotherapy. Furthermore, preclinical studies suggest a direct role of the RANK/RANK-ligand pathway in breast tumorigenesis. This paper reviews preclinical and clinical data on denosumab in breast cancer.

Materials and methods

Studies were identified through the Medline database. Key search terms included: AMG

SUBMITTER: Steger GG 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3169928 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature