Metabolomics-based exploration of the pathogenesis of breast cancer-related fatigue and progress of traditional Chinese medicine intervention.

Breast cancer-related fatigue is a persistent and subjective sense of tiredness caused by either the cancer itself or its treatments. This fatigue is disproportionate to recent physical activity and significantly interferes with daily life. The exact pathogenesis of Breast cancer-related fatigue remains unclear. Breast cancer cells induce metabolic abnormalities through reprogramming. This disruption in metabolic balance-particularly in various systems-may contribute to Breast cancer-related fatigue by compromising the body's overall metabolic homeostasis, all while supporting the biosynthetic demands of cancer cell proliferation. Current pharmacological treatments for cancer-related fatigue have demonstrated limited and inconsistent efficacy. These treatments are often hindered by a narrow drug target profile, high rates of adverse effects, and the complex mechanisms underlying fatigue, particularly those related to metabolic changes. Traditional Chinese medicine, with its multi-target modulation and lower toxicity, holds significant potential as long-term adjunctive or alternative treatments for Breast cancer-related fatigue. This article reviews the current understanding of the metabolic causes of Breast cancer-related fatigue and explores the role of traditional Chinese medicine interventions, offering new insights into potential targeted therapies for this condition.