Hierarchical clustering of activated proteins in the PI3K and MAPK pathways in ER-positive HER2-negative breast cancer with potential therapeutic consequences

摘要

Background The phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PI3K) and/or mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are frequently activated in breast cancer which can result in antioestrogen resistance. Single protein markers failed to be introduced into clinical practice. We, therefore, aimed to find a better read-out of activation of the PI3K and MAPK pathways in ER+/HER2− breast cancer. Assessment of seven PI3K/MAPK proteins might better reflect pathway activation and distinguish patients without adjuvant tamoxifen benefit.