Datopotamab deruxtecan for previously treated unresectable or metastatic HR+ HER2- breast cancer

Datopotamab deruxtecan is in clinical development for the treatment of inoperable or metastatic HR-positive HER2-negative breast cancer after one or two lines of systemic chemotherapy. Breast cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the breast which divide uncontrollably to eventually form a tumour. Breast cancers can also be hormone receptor positive (HR+), meaning that hormones such as oestrogen or progesterone can bind to the cancer cells and promote cell growth. HER2 is a transmembrane receptor protein that is overexpressed in about 20% of breast cancers and associated with more aggressive disease in the absence of HER2 directed therapy. The exact cause of breast cancer is unknown. However, risk factors include increased age, lifestyle factors, medical history, and radiation exposure. Current chemotherapy options have limited efficacy and substantial toxicities, therefore there is a need for safer and more effective treatment options.