Immediate results are expected: researchers have developed a new method for treating breast cancer.

In the relentless pursuit of finding more effective treatments for aggressive forms of breast cancer, scientists have introduced a new methodology that could revolutionize this field. Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is particularly challenging due to its resistance to standard hormonal therapies, leaving patients with limited options for overcoming it. However, this new development may fundamentally change the situation, reports Knowridge.

Immunotherapy has emerged as one of the promising avenues for treating the disease, yet its success varies among different patients with TNBC, highlighting the need for precise monitoring tools. A recent study conducted by researchers at Vanderbilt University and published in the journal Theranostics introduced ultra-fast energy Doppler ultrasound as a non-invasive method for observing changes in the tumor's blood vessels in real-time.

This technology will enable doctors to gain dynamic insights into how TNBC tumors respond to treatments such as radiation and immunotherapy, potentially leading to the development of more personalized and effective therapeutic strategies. The research team, led by Assistant Professor Marjan Rafat in collaboration with Associate Professor Charles Kasky, applied this innovative ultrasound technique on two breast cancer models: metastatic (spreading) and non-metastatic (localized).

The study results demonstrated a significant and sustained decrease in the tumor vascular index—an indicator of blood vessel activity—following radiation therapy. This decrease suggests that radiation effectively disrupts the tumor's blood supply, which may hinder its growth. Furthermore, these vascular changes were associated with an increase in CD8+ T cells—a type of immune cell known for targeting and destroying cancer cells—indicating an enhanced immune response within the tumor environment.

An early increase in these immune cells was also observed in the spleen shortly after radiation therapy, suggesting systemic immune activation. These findings indicate that ultra-fast energy Doppler ultrasound could become a vital tool in tailoring cancer treatments to individual patients.

By obtaining immediate feedback on how the tumor responds, physicians will be able to adjust therapies more swiftly and accurately, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients with TNBC. As noted by Professor Rafat, the results obtained suggest that ultra-fast energy Doppler ultrasound could become an essential tool in personalizing cancer treatment in the foreseeable future.

However, despite the positive outcomes, further research on this technology is necessary to confirm its effectiveness on a broader patient population. If the results are validated, this approach could significantly enhance the precision of treatment for triple-negative breast cancer and provide hope to millions of patients facing this formidable disease.

Triple-negative breast cancer accounts for approximately 10-15% of all breast cancer cases and is more commonly found in women under 40 and individuals of African descent. The development of non-invasive monitoring tools, such as ultra-fast energy Doppler ultrasound imaging, represents a significant advancement in addressing the challenging issues associated with this aggressive subtype of cancer.

Important! This article is based on the latest scientific and medical research and does not contradict them. The text is for informational purposes only and does not contain medical advice. For diagnosis, please consult a physician.