Tumor microenvironment changes during the treatment of triple negative breast cancer – the role of locoregional treatment approaches

Objective: Triple negative breast cancer (TNBC) is known as the most aggressive type of breast cancer. However different immune profiles and tumor microenvironments of TNBC have to be distinguished. We compare responses on standard treatment regimens for different subtypes of TNBC and evaluate local treatment methods on their potential to change the tumor microenvironment.

Material and Methods: A review on clinical trials for systemic chemotherapy, checkpoint inhibition, and targeted therapies for triple negative breast cancer is done. Furthermore, the effect and ability of locoregional treatments like arterial infusion, isolated perfusion and electrochemotherapy to change the tumor microenvironment is analyzed.

Results: Treatment responses for TNBC has divergent outcomes and can be aligned to three subtypes of immunological environment. However tumor microenvironment can change during therapy to a more immunogenic type, especially with local treatments.

Conclusion: Triple negative breast cancer is a complex disease wich needs to be categorized precisely to find the best treatment option. Local treatments might have the potential to change the tumor microenvironment to a better prognostic outcome.

Publication History

Article published online:
04 June 2025