Unraveling hereditary breast cancer susceptibility: a systems biology approach on GEO datasets with functional genomic insights and implications for traditional Chinese medicine

Abstract Background This study aimed to identify the genetic causes of hereditary breast cancer and potential treatment strategies by combining genomic and traditional Chinese medicine investigations. Of the many genes that significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer, BRCA1 and BRCA2 are primarily responsible for the majority of hereditary breast cancers. Results Following a systematic review and analysis using Gene Expression Omnibus datasets and various systems biology tools, we identified 16 important differentially expressed genes. These include ZEB1, FOXP1, ETS1, and BCL2, all of which play a role in tumorigenesis through apoptosis, cell proliferation, and metastasis. This study shows how hub genes work with herbs, which helps us learn more about how traditional Chinese medicine can be used to treat illness. Resveratrol, cinobufagin, brusatol, and oxymatrine are examples of these herbs. All of these have been shown to affect the functioning of cancer cells. Based on enrichment analysis, some of these herbs may boost the immune system and stop tumor growth. Conclusions Genomic information, alternative medicine, and personalized medicine can be used for breast cancer treatment. By providing a different treatment option that works with standard medicine, this method can improve precision medicine for people whose family history increases their risk of developing breast cancer. For integrative approaches to be successful and safe, they must be tested in more clinical settings.