Vactosertib enhances radiotherapy efficacy by modulating radiation-induced tumor microenvironment remodeling in breast cancer
Abstract
Background
Radiotherapy (RT) is a standard treatment for breast cancer; however, it can induce unfavorable alterations in the tumor microenvironment (TME), including inflammatory responses, fibrosis, and immune dysregulation, which may compromise therapeutic efficacy and contribute to suboptimal treatment outcomes. This study aimed to investigate whether Vactosertib, a TGF-β receptor I inhibitor, could modulate RT-induced TME changes and improve treatment outcomes.
Materials and methods
A breast tumor-bearing mouse model was established and treated with RT alone or in combination with Vactosertib. Mice received fractionated irradiation (4 Gy/day for 3 days) and oral administration of Vactosertib (2.5 mg/kg for 2 weeks). Tumor progression, gene expression, cytokine profiles, immune cell infiltration, and fibrosis were analyzed using microarray analysis, quantitative RT-PCR, ELISA, and histological assessments.
Results
RT alone reduced tumor volume but induced transcriptional and cytokine changes associated with inflammation and fibrosis within tumor tissues. In contrast, combination treatment with Vactosertib significantly enhanced tumor suppression compared with RT alone. This was accompanied by reduced expression of pro-inflammatory cytokines, decreased collagen deposition, and increased infiltration of CD8+ T cells, indicating a shift toward a more favorable anti-tumor immune microenvironment.
Conclusions
These findings suggest that Vactosertib may enhance the therapeutic efficacy of RT by modulating radiation-induced inflammatory and fibrotic changes in the TME, supporting its potential as a rational combination strategy to improve RT outcomes in breast cancer.
© 2026 Jiyoung Park, Jiwon Choi, Yhun Yhong Sheen, published by Association of Radiology and Oncology
This work is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.