Researchers are investigating the effectiveness of two common generic medications in targeting dormant cancer cells.

Penn researchers have made significant strides in the battle against breast cancer, identifying a combination of common, generic drugs that may effectively target dormant cancer cells. This advancement holds promise for preventing recurring cases of the disease, which affects approximately 30% of patients who initially respond well to treatment. Unfortunately, subsequent recurrences are often fatal, raising concerns among both patients and healthcare professionals.

Dormant cancer cells, akin to bears in hibernation, can remain inactive in various parts of the body, only to reactivate and proliferate years or even decades after the initial treatment. Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania have developed a test designed to detect these silent cancer cells, paired with a treatment regimen aimed at eradicating them before they can cause harm.

As part of an ongoing clinical trial, participants underwent periodic testing of their bone marrow to check for dormant breast cancer cells. Those who tested positive received a regimen of two repurposed medications—hydroxychloroquine, typically utilized for treating malaria and some autoimmune conditions, and everolimus, a drug that prevents organ rejection post-transplant.

The results from the study, which involved 51 participants, revealed an impressive clearance rate of dormant cancer cells, achieving success in 80% of cases. Notably, three years post-treatment, 90% of patients receiving hydroxychloroquine alone remained cancer-free, while 100% of those treated with the combination of both drugs did not experience a recurrence. These findings have recently been published in the journal Nature.

This groundbreaking research has been partly funded by a federal grant amounting to million. Nevertheless, it is important to note that these preliminary results require validation through larger studies before widespread clinical application can be considered. However, the potential implications for breast cancer survivors, who often live with the uncertainty of recurrence, are profound.

Angie DeMichele, co-director of the breast cancer research program at the Abramson Cancer Center, notes the critical need for strategies that can distinguish which patients are at risk for recurrence. The trial has not only offered hope but has reportedly alleviated anxiety for participants who previously faced the looming fear of cancer returning.

Moving forward, the research team is focused on conducting larger clinical trials to further assess the combination of these drugs and to continue monitoring previous participants. The identification and targeting of dormant cancer cells represent a significant advancement in oncological research, potentially reshaping treatment protocols for those battling breast cancer.