Unveiling the Complex Ecosystem of Breast Cancer: Crucial Insights for Patients and Doctors

Breast cancer, a multifaceted disease, presents a dynamic ecosystem where the primary tumor interacts intricately with its microenvironment, circulatory system, and distant organs. Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) disseminate from the primary tumor to organs, such as the brain, lungs, liver, and bones, encountering various fates: cell death, cellular dormancy, or senescence. Dormant cells, characterized by reversible growth arrest at the G₀/G₁ phase of the cell cycle, pose a significant challenge as they evade conventional treatments and can later reawaken, leading to cancer relapse. The phenomenon of tumor dormancy is influenced by the tumor microenvironment, immune modulation, and cellular adaptations. Emerging evidence suggests that breast-conserving surgery coupled with radiation therapy offers superior survival benefits compared to mastectomy, potentially due to the 'breast homing phenomenon.' This hypothesis posits that residual breast tissue provides a niche for reactivated dormant cells, reducing distant metastasis. Immunotherapy and lifestyle modifications, including diet and exercise, show promise in managing dormant cells. Understanding the mechanisms of dormancy and developing targeted therapies are crucial for achieving long-term remission and potentially curing breast cancer.