Targeting Interleukin-13 Receptor α2 and EphA2 in Aggressive Breast Cancer Subtypes with Special References to Chimeric Antigen Receptor T-Cell Therapy

Int J Mol Sci. 2024 Mar 28;25(7):3780. doi: 10.3390/ijms25073780.

Abstract

Breast cancer (BCA) remains the leading cause of cancer-related mortality among women worldwide. This review delves into the therapeutic challenges of BCA, emphasizing the roles of interleukin-13 receptor α2 (IL-13Rα2) and erythropoietin-producing hepatocellular receptor A2 (EphA2) in tumor progression and resistance. Highlighting their overexpression in BCA, particularly in aggressive subtypes, such as Her-2-enriched and triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), we discuss the potential of these receptors as targets for chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) therapies. We examine the structural and functional roles of IL-13Rα2 and EphA2, their pathological significance in BCA, and the promising therapeutic avenues their targeting presents. With an in-depth analysis of current immunotherapeutic strategies, including the limitations of existing treatments and the potential of dual antigen-targeting CAR T-cell therapies, this review aims to summarize potential future novel, more effective therapeutic interventions for BCA. Through a thorough examination of preclinical and clinical studies, it underlines the urgent need for targeted therapies in combating the high mortality rates associated with Her-2-enriched and TNBC subtypes and discusses the potential role of IL-13Rα2 and EphA2 as promising candidates for the development of CAR T-cell therapies.

Keywords: EphA2; immunotherapy; interleukin-13 receptor α2; triple-negative breast cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy, Adoptive*
  • Interleukin-13 Receptor alpha2 Subunit* / genetics
  • Receptors, Chimeric Antigen*
  • Receptors, Erythropoietin
  • Triple Negative Breast Neoplasms* / therapy

Grants and funding

Brown Center for Immunotherapy/ Indiana University School of Medicine.