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Targeted therapy for epithelial ovarian cancer: current status and future prospects
1Department of Gynecological Medical Oncology and Experimental Therapeutics, University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas 77030-4009, USA.
Abstract:
Despite advances in surgery and chemotherapy, less than 20% of patients with stage III or IV ovarian cancer survive long-term. In the past, cytotoxic regimens have been developed empirically, combining active agents at maximally tolerated doses, often without a clear rationale for their interaction. Advances in understanding the biology of ovarian cancer have identified multiple molecular targets that differ in normal and malignant cells. Targets include cell cycle regulators, growth factor receptors, signal transduction pathways, molecules that confer drug resistance, and angiogenic mechanisms. A number of targeted agents have entered clinical trials. Small molecular weight inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and antisense and gene therapy are all being evaluated alone and in combination with cytotoxic drugs. In contrast to earlier studies, the impact of each agent on the designated target can be assessed and agents can be matched to the genotype and phenotype of malignant and normal cells. In the long run, this should facilitate individualization of more effective, less toxic therapy for women with ovarian cancer.
Insights
Targeted therapies offer new hope for advanced ovarian cancer patients. By targeting specific molecular pathways, these novel treatments aim to improve survival rates and reduce toxicity compared to traditional chemotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Advanced ovarian cancer (stage III/IV) has poor long-term survival (<20%) despite surgery and chemotherapy.
- Traditional cytotoxic regimens were developed empirically, lacking clear biological rationale for drug interactions.
- Recent advances reveal distinct molecular targets in ovarian cancer cells versus normal cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore novel targeted agents for ovarian cancer treatment.
- To assess the potential of personalized medicine approaches in ovarian cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Evaluation of targeted agents including small molecule inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, antisense, and gene therapy.
- Clinical trials assessing targeted agents alone and in combination with cytotoxic drugs.
- Assessment of agent impact on specific molecular targets and matching agents to tumor genotype/phenotype.
Main Results:
- Multiple molecular targets identified in ovarian cancer, including cell cycle regulators, growth factor receptors, signal transduction pathways, drug resistance mechanisms, and angiogenic factors.
- A number of targeted agents are currently in clinical trials.
- The impact of targeted agents on their designated targets can be assessed.
Conclusions:
- Targeted therapies represent a promising strategy for improving ovarian cancer treatment outcomes.
- Personalized medicine, matching therapies to individual tumor characteristics, is feasible and expected to enhance efficacy and reduce toxicity.
- Future ovarian cancer treatment will likely involve individualized therapeutic approaches based on molecular profiling.
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