PTEN rs701848 Polymorphism is Associated with Trastuzumab Resistance in HER2-positive Metastatic Breast Cancer and Predicts Progression-free Survival

Abstract

Background: Trastuzumab is an effective therapeutic approach for HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (BC). However, a considerable number of patients develop resistance along the course of the disease. PTEN rs701848 polymorphisms are associated with an increased risk of developing cancer and have a potential role in predicting drug resistance.

Objective: We studied the significance of PTEN rs701848 variants as significant predictors for trastuzumab resistance in HER2-positive metastatic BC patients. Therefore, considering their value in predicting clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods: This case-control study was conducted among female patients with HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer who underwent Trastuzumab therapy during the period from March 2017 to December 2020. PTEN rs701848 genotypes were analyzed in 160 HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer who received Trastuzumab therapy and clinically monitored for therapeutic response.

Results: PTEN rs701848 is deemed a significant predictor of Trastuzumab resistance and an independent prognostic factor of progression-free survival (PPFS). In particular, the C allele is associated with increased risk for Trastuzumab resistance and shorter PFS as compared to the homozygous TT genotype.

Conclusion: PTEN rs701848 is significant predictor of trastuzumab resistance. Therefore, their value in predicting clinical outcomes is recommended