Abstract

Breast cancer (BC) remains one of the most complex and heterogeneous malignancies, driven by intricate interactions among genetic mutations, hormonal regulation, and environmental influences. The World Health Organization reported approximately 2.3 million BC diagnoses in 2022, accounting for nearly 11.6% of all newly reported cancer cases worldwide. This review highlights recent advances in BC research, emphasizing the integration of molecular profiling with nanomedicine to advance precision oncology. We examine key hereditary risk factors, including mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, TP53, and PALB2, in the context of genetic predisposition, risk assessment, and preventive interventions. Emerging diagnostic approaches such as liquid biopsies, circulating tumor DNA analysis, and next-generation sequencing are compared with conventional biopsy techniques, emphasizing their potential for minimally invasive, real-time tumor monitoring. Particular attention is given to nano-enabled platforms for enhanced biomarker detection. On the therapeutic front, targeted nanocarrier systems (liposomes, dendrimers, polymeric micelles, exosomes, and antibody–drug conjugates) demonstrate promise in improving drug bioavailability, site-specific delivery, and mitigation of systemic toxicity and multidrug resistance. We outline major translational challenges like tumor heterogeneity, immune evasion, and the complex tumor microenvironment. Looking ahead, the convergence of stimuli-responsive nanoplatforms, RNA-based therapeutics, and biomarker-guided treatment is anticipated to redefine the therapeutic landscape. Overall, this review provides clinicians and researchers with an in-depth understanding of the evolving molecular and nanotechnological strategies driving precision medicine in BC management.

Key words: Polymeric micelles; breast cancer; amphiphilic block polymer; tumor targeting; drug discovery