Targeting fibroblast growth factor receptor pathway in breast cancer

Purpose of review: The purpose of this manuscript is to critically review the literature published last year focusing on the rationale and potential role of fibroblast growth factor receptor (FGFR) inhibitors in breast cancer. Recent findings: Substantial evidence indicates that aberrant FGFR signaling is involved in the pathogenesis of breast cancer. FGFR targeting has progressed in the last years due to the development of novel agents inhibiting FGF or FGFR. One of the most investigated FGFR inhibitors is lucitanib, which has shown clinical activity in breast cancer, especially in presence of FGF aberrations. Moving forward, the design and development of FGFR4 inhibitors and covalent FGFR inhibitors may overcome resistance to first-generation FGFR inhibitors. Summary: Inhibition of FGFR signaling is under investigation in the treatment of breast cancer with increasing interest. Next steps will include the optimal selection of patients to be treated with this class of drugs and the development of new-generation FGFR inhibitors to face with the resistance issue.