Middle East Journal of Cancer

A Narrative Review on Targeting Neurokinin-1 Receptor (NK1R) System: A New Strategy for Breast Cancer Treatment

Articles in Press

Document Type : Review Article(s)

Authors

Zahra Aalipour Hafshejani 1
Morteza Yousefi Darani 2
Mohammad Aghebati 2
Alireza Shirzadi 3

1 Department of Medical Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, Zanjan, Iran.

2 Cancer Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

3 Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran

10.30476/mejc.2026.109106.2353
Abstract
Breast cancer is among the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide, with its incidence steadily increasing. While multiple factors contribute to its development, understanding the interplay of molecular and cellular pathways is essential for effective therapeutic strategies. Among these, the tachykinin family—particularly the neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R)—has emerged as a significant player in breast cancer progression. Substance P, a key agonist of NK1R, and the proliferative marker Ki-67, have both been implicated in tumor development. The purpose of this narrative review was to examine recent findings suggesting that NK1R antagonists not only exert antiproliferative and antitumor effects but may also mitigate chemotherapy-induced side effects, such as nausea. These observations clarify existing gaps related to the connection between NK1R, substance P, and Ki-67, and the level of confidence in the drug efficacy of breast cancer.

Keywords

Breast neoplasms
Neurokinin-1 receptor (NK1R)
Substance P
Ki-67
Targeted therapy
Subjects

Please cite this article as: Aalipour Hafshejani Z, Yousefi Darani M, Aghebati M, Shirzadi A. A narrative review on targeting Neurokinin-1 Receptor (NK1R) system: a new strategy for breast cancer treatment. Middle East J Cancer. 2026: in press. doi: 10.30476/mejc.2026.109106.2353.

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