Preclinical studies and clinical utilization of monoclonal antibodies in epithelial ovarian cancer
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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
An Orthotopic Model of Serous Ovarian Cancer in Immunocompetent Mice for in vivo Tumor Imaging and Monitoring of Tumor Immune Responses
Published on: November 28, 2010
Peter J Frederick1, J Michael Straughn, Ronald D Alvarez
1Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL 35249, USA. pfrederick5@hotmail.com
Objective:
To present an overview of selected monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that have been studied in epithelial ovarian cancer with a focus on combination treatment with conventional chemotherapy.
Methods:
The authors perform a narrative review of the literature. Preclinical studies that provided rationale for mAb use are examined, and selected clinical trials that evaluated efficacy and tolerability are reviewed.
Results:
Numerous mAbs have been utilized in epithelial ovarian cancer, including bevacizumab (anti-vascular endothelial growth factor), trastuzumab (anti-human epidermal growth factor-2), cetuximab (anti-epidermal growth factor receptor), and oregovomab (anti-CA125). Favorable preclinical results have lead to the development of a number of clinical trials. Side-effects have been minimal and combination therapy has been well-tolerated. Efficacy has been variable in the clinical trials.
Conclusions:
Targeted treatment with mAbs in conjunction with cytotoxic chemotherapy has been an important research area during the last decade. This therapeutic approach holds promise for improved outcomes in patients with ovarian cancer.
Insights
Monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) combined with chemotherapy show promise for treating epithelial ovarian cancer. While efficacy varies, this targeted approach is well-tolerated and offers potential for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunotherapy
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains a significant health challenge.
- Conventional chemotherapy has limitations in treating EOC.
- Targeted therapies offer new avenues for EOC treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) investigated in epithelial ovarian cancer.
- To focus on the combination of mAbs with conventional chemotherapy.
- To assess the efficacy and tolerability of these combination treatments.
Main Methods:
- Narrative literature review.
- Examination of preclinical studies supporting mAb rationale.
- Review of selected clinical trials on mAb efficacy and tolerability in EOC.
Main Results:
- Several mAbs, including bevacizumab, trastuzumab, cetuximab, and oregovomab, have been studied in EOC.
- Preclinical data supported the development of clinical trials.
- Combination therapy with mAbs and chemotherapy demonstrated minimal side-effects and good tolerability, though efficacy was variable.
Conclusions:
- Monoclonal antibody therapy combined with chemotherapy is a key research area in EOC.
- This targeted approach holds promise for enhancing treatment outcomes in ovarian cancer patients.
- Further research is warranted to optimize mAb-based combination therapies for EOC.
