NK cells

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is widely recognized as one of the most aggressive subtypes of breast cancer. Because tumor cells lack estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2, many standard targeted therapies are ineffective. As a result, treatment often relies on chemotherapy and selected immunotherapies. Despite aggressive care, some patients experience early relapse, metastasis, or gradual loss of treatment response.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is defined by the absence of estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 expression, accounting for approximately 15–20% of all breast cancers. Compared with other subtypes, TNBC often affects younger patients, shows poorer pathological differentiation, and is characterized by aggressive behavior, with higher rates of recurrence, metastasis, and mortality.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is often described as one of the most difficult breast cancer subtypes to treat. It lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 expression, leaving patients with fewer targeted treatment options. TNBC is known for its aggressive biological behavior, rapid disease progression, and higher risks of early recurrence and distant metastasis.

Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is one of the most challenging subtypes of breast cancer. Because tumor cells lack estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2 expression, many standard targeted therapies are ineffective. As a result, treatment strategies often rely on chemotherapy and selected immunotherapies, yet recurrence, metastasis, and treatment resistance remain common concerns.

In recent years, immunotherapy has become a major focus in cancer treatment. Breakthroughs in cancers like melanoma have raised hopes that immunotherapy could be a game-changer for many patients. However, in breast cancer, immunotherapy is not suitable for everyone—and it is not a “magic treatment” that automatically means fewer side effects.

For many breast cancer patients, being diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) brings a deeper level of fear and uncertainty. Unlike other types of breast cancer, TNBC lacks estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and the HER2 protein. This means that commonly used hormone therapies and HER2-targeted treatments are not effective options.

Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide, but what poses the greatest threat to patient survival is not the primary tumor—it is metastasis. When cancer cells spread to the bone, liver, lung, or brain, treatment becomes significantly more challenging and survival rates decrease. For many breast cancer patients, the fear of metastasis overshadows the diagnosis itself. The question is no longer simply whether surgery can remove a tumor, but whether the cancer will return or spread again. As research progresses, it has become increasingly clear that the immune system plays a pivotal role in shaping metastasis—sometimes as a defender, and at other times, surprisingly, as a facilitator.

The human immune system is a sophisticated defense network designed to identify and eliminate threats such as viruses, bacteria, and abnormal cells. White blood cells, macrophages, natural killer (NK) cells, T cells, and B cells work together to identify invaders and coordinate immune responses. NK cells and macrophages act as frontline defenders, while lymphocytes such as T cells use receptors to recognize and destroy abnormal cells displaying unique antigens. These mechanisms are essential for preventing cancer development, as the body routinely removes mutated or abnormal cells before they become malignant. When immune surveillance fails or is bypassed, cancer cells gain the chance to grow unchecked.

For many women facing cervical cancer, breast cancer, or ovarian cancer, the struggle extends far beyond the physical toll. The diagnosis often comes with emotional distress, concerns for family and career responsibilities, and the fear of recurrence. Cervical cancer is most common among women aged 25 to 45, affecting individuals in the midst of building careers or raising children. Breast cancer peaks between the ages of 45 and 69 and remains the most prevalent cancer among women, requiring complex treatment combinations depending on disease stage and genetic factors. Ovarian cancer, often diagnosed late due to a lack of reliable screening tools, carries the highest mortality among the three, with a five-year survival rate under 30% and recurrence rates reaching 70% to 80%. These statistics highlight why many patients facing these cancers are exploring treatment options that not only control tumors but also improve quality of life and minimize side effects.

For decades, cancer treatment has relied primarily on surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and later, targeted therapy. These methods focus on directly destroying cancer cells through drugs, radiation, or surgical removal. While effective, they can also damage healthy tissues and weaken the immune system.