Enhancing radiosensitivity in triple-negative breast cancer through targeting ELOB

Breast Cancer. 2024 May;31(3):426-439. doi: 10.1007/s12282-024-01554-w. Epub 2024 Mar 12.

Abstract

Enhancing radiotherapy sensitivity is crucial for improving treatment outcomes in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) patients. In this study, we investigated the potential of targeting Elongin B (ELOB) to enhance radiotherapy efficacy in TNBC. Analysis of TNBC patient cohorts revealed a significant association between high ELOB expression and poor prognosis in patients who received radiation therapy. Mechanistically, we found that ELOB plays a pivotal role in regulating mitochondrial function via modulating mitochondrial DNA expression and activities of respiratory chain complexes. Targeting ELOB effectively modulated mitochondrial function, leading to enhanced radiosensitivity in TNBC cells. Our findings highlight the importance of ELOB as a potential therapeutic target for improving radiotherapy outcomes in TNBC. Further exploration of ELOB's role in enhancing radiotherapy efficacy may provide valuable insights for developing novel treatment strategies for TNBC patients.

Keywords: Mitochondrial DNA expression; Mitochondrial respiration; Radiosensitivity; Triple-negative breast cancer.

MeSH terms

  • DNA, Mitochondrial / genetics
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic / radiation effects
  • Humans
  • Mitochondria / metabolism
  • Mitochondria / radiation effects
  • Prognosis
  • Radiation Tolerance*
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms* / radiotherapy

Substances

  • DNA, Mitochondrial
  • Transcription Factors
  • ELOB protein, human