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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
Murine Model for Non-invasive Imaging to Detect and Monitor Ovarian Cancer Recurrence
Published on: November 2, 2014
Intraoperative imaging in ovarian cancer: fact or fiction?
Lucia M A Crane1, Marleen van Oosten, Rick G Pleijhuis
1Department of Surgery, Division of Surgical Oncology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
Abstract:
Tumor-targeted fluorescence imaging for cancer diagnosis and treatment is an evolving field of research that is on the verge of clinical implementation. As each tumor has its unique biologic profile, selection of the most promising targets is essential. In this review, we focus on target finding in ovarian cancer, a disease in which fluorescence imaging may be of value in both adequate staging and in improving cytoreductive efforts, and as such may have a beneficial effect on prognosis. Thus far, tumor-targeted imaging for ovarian cancer has been applied only in animal models. For clinical implementation, the five most prominent targets were identified: folate receptor α, vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor receptor, chemokine receptor 4, and matrix metalloproteinase. These targets were selected based on expression rates in ovarian cancer, availability of an antibody or substrate aimed at the target approved by the Food and Drug Administration, and the likelihood of translation to human use. The purpose of this review is to present requirements for intraoperative imaging and to discuss possible tumor-specific targets for ovarian cancer, prioritizing for targets with substrates ready for introduction into the clinic.
Insights
This review explores tumor-targeted fluorescence imaging for ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment. It identifies key targets like folate receptor alpha for potential clinical use.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Tumor-targeted fluorescence imaging shows promise for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
- Ovarian cancer diagnosis and staging can benefit from advanced imaging techniques.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review tumor-specific targets for ovarian cancer fluorescence imaging.
- To present requirements for intraoperative imaging and discuss potential clinical targets.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on ovarian cancer.
- Identification and selection of prominent molecular targets based on expression, FDA approval, and clinical translation potential.
Main Results:
- Five prominent targets identified: folate receptor α, vascular endothelial growth factor, epidermal growth factor receptor, chemokine receptor 4, and matrix metalloproteinase.
- Current applications are primarily in animal models, with a need for clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Target selection is crucial for effective tumor-targeted imaging in ovarian cancer.
- Prioritizing targets with FDA-approved substrates is key for clinical implementation.
