New TNBC Stratification Highlights Prognostic Tumor Cells
A study led by the Bodenmiller Lab at DQBM, University of Zurich, introduces a clinically actionable stratification system for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Using imaging mass cytometry across 215 patient samples, the team identified a stem-like basoluminal tumor cell phenotype (CK5+/CK7+) associated with rapid recurrence. The researchers also linked improved prognosis to tumors with high CD8+ T cell interaction and HLADR expression.
By integrating tumor cell phenotypes with spatial immune architecture, the team defined five prognostic subtypes and three distinct risk groups across multiple cohorts totaling over 3,700 patients. This approach may guide personalized treatment strategies and immunotherapy decisions for TNBC patients.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ccell.2025.06.019