Abstract PS1-03-02: Modulation of Inflammatory Gene Expression by Mind-Body Transformations Therapy (MBT-T) in Breast Cancer Patients

Abstract Psychotherapeutic interventions, particularly those based on mind-body approaches, have demonstrated the ability to modulate inflammatory responses by downregulating the expression of inflammation-related genes and proteins. This has particular clinical relevance in breast cancer, where chronic inflammation is a well-established contributor to disease progression and resistance to therapy. Mind-Body Transformations Therapy (MBT-T) is an evidence-based therapeutic protocol designed to harness natural biological rhythms and biological plasticity in order to modulate gene expression. By reducing stress-induced dysfunctions, MBT-T facilitates the activation of endogenous healing mechanisms through the establishment of an optimal mind-body state. In our previous study (MBT-T Protocol 11/17) we demonstrated that MBT-T significantly reduced the serum levels of multiple cytokines and chemokines in breast cancer patients who had completed loco-regional treatment and adjuvant chemotherapy, compared to a matched control group not exposed to MBT-T. To further elucidate the molecular basis of these effects, we conducted a NanoString gene expression analysis on RNA extracted from blood samples collected from participants enrolled in the MBT-T study. The nCounter® Human Inflammation Panel, comprising 249 genes implicated in inflammatory and immune-related pathways, was used to evaluate gene expression changes at the end of the treatment (Tt) compared to baseline (T0). Matched timepoints were also analyzed in control patients. Consistent with our previous findings, MBT-T-treated patients exhibited a generalized downregulation of inflammatory gene expression at Tt compared to T0. Notably, we observed a significant reduction in the expression of genes associated with the interferon (IFN) signaling pathway, including OASL, OAS2, STAT2, IFIT1, IFIT3, and MX1. In contrast, the control group did not display significant modulation of inflammatory or IFN-related gene expression across timepoints. These findings are particularly meaningful given the complex role of the IFN pathway within the tumor microenvironment, where it influences immune cell dynamics, tumor cell behavior, and response to therapy. Elevated expression of IFN-related genes—such as OASL, OAS2, STAT2, and the IFIT family members—has been associated with immune evasion, angiogenesis, and tumor aggressiveness in several malignancies, including breast cancer. Collectively, our data suggest that MBT-T, through the reduction of psychophysiological stress, can downregulate key inflammatory signaling pathways, particularly those mediated by type I interferons. This modulation may influence tumor progression, reduce the risk of relapse, and enhance therapeutic responsiveness in breast cancer patients. These findings support the integration of mind-body interventions as adjunctive strategies in oncological care, with potential biological impact at the molecular level. Citation Format: S. Cocco, M. Cozzolino, M. Piezzo, R. Caputo, G. Celia, D. Barberio, V. Abate, M. De Filippo, V. Vaira, A. Calabrese, C. Della Bella, A. Leone, P. Mussnich De Freitas, E. Di Gennaro, A. Budillon, M. De Laurentiis. Modulation of Inflammatory Gene Expression by Mind-Body Transformations Therapy (MBT-T) in Breast Cancer Patients [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium 2025; 2025 Dec 9-12; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(4 Suppl):Abstract nr PS1-03-02.