Breast cancers that do not contain growth regulator proteins for estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), or HER-2 are termed “triple negative” tumors. Triple negative tumors are aggressive. Patients with metastatic triple negative tumors have a poor prognosis when treated with standard therapies.Sutent® (sunitinib) is an oral targeted drug that blocks growth promoting receptors PDGF-R and VEGF-R. It blocks angiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel growth in tumors. Without new blood vessel formation, tumor growth is inhibited.The risks of Sutent are hypertension, abdominal pain, slow wound healing, changes in blood chemistry or blood counts, reduced thyroid function, and bleeding. Rare cases of reduced heart function or brain white matter injury have occurred.
CORT is conducting a study to evaluate the addition of Sutent versus standard chemotherapy in patients with triple negative metastatic breast cancer. Several standard treatments are allowed in this study, and the physician may choose the one felt most appropriate for the individual patient. The study will determine is Sutent has comparable or superior activity to standard treatments in this high risk group of patients.Anti-angiogenic treatment added to standard chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer has already been shown to increase disease response to treatment and prolong disease control.
CORT is conducting a study of study comparing standard therapy with two drugs, bevacizumab (Avastin) and paclitaxel (Taxol) to the combination of Sutent and Taxol. Avastin is an antibody that blocks angiogenesis, with risks similar to those of Sutent. Avastin requires intravenous administration, and occasional infusion reactions (allergic reactions) do occur. The study will determine is Sutent is comparable or superior to Avastin, when either is combined Taxol with chemotherapy.
For more information about these studies, visit www.CORTPA.com or contact a Research Coordinator at 972-566-5588.
Tags: Breast Cancer, metastatic breast cancer, sunitinib, Sutent, triple-negative breast cancer, paclitaxel, Taxol, bevacizumab, Avastin
