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Evaluating the Angiogenetic Properties of Ovarian Cancer Stem-Like Cells using the Three-Dimensional Co-Culture System, NICO-1
Published on: December 5, 2020
Novel antiangiogenic therapies in ovarian cancer
1The Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University, The Program in Women's Oncology, Women & Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island, 101 Dudley Street, Providence, RI 02905, USA. astuckey@wihri.org
Abstract:
Epithelial ovarian cancer is the leading cause of death in the developed world for women with gynecologic carcinomas. Despite the effectiveness of platinum salts and taxanes as primary treatments, approximately 80% of women will recur and for them prognosis with available treatments is poor. Of the novel mechanisms under active investigation, there is ample evidence to indicate that angiogenesis is important to the development, progression and poor prognosis of ovarian cancer. Novel treatments are therefore required. A number of agents are undergoing evaluation, including vascular disrupting agents, angiogenesis inhibitors, tyrosine kinase inhibitors and agents targeting the folate receptor. At present, Phase III data are only available for the VEGF-targeted monoclonal antibody, bevacizumab, and that has demonstrated a progression-free survival benefit when used in combination with first-line paclitaxel/carboplatin and continued as maintenance therapy. The strategy of inhibiting angiogenesis in ovarian cancer remains promising. However, other agents in development may point to other important targets in ovarian cancer.
Insights
Epithelial ovarian cancer frequently recurs, necessitating novel treatments. Angiogenesis inhibition, like with bevacizumab, shows promise for improving outcomes in ovarian cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Gynecologic Oncology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Epithelial ovarian cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in women.
- Most patients experience recurrence despite initial platinum and taxane chemotherapy.
- Angiogenesis is a critical factor in ovarian cancer development, progression, and poor prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review novel therapeutic strategies for ovarian cancer.
- To evaluate the role of angiogenesis inhibition in ovarian cancer treatment.
- To discuss the current landscape and future directions for ovarian cancer therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on ovarian cancer treatment and angiogenesis.
- Analysis of clinical trial data for novel agents, including bevacizumab.
- Discussion of emerging therapeutic targets and strategies.
Main Results:
- Bevacizumab, a VEGF-targeted antibody, demonstrated progression-free survival benefit in Phase III trials when combined with first-line chemotherapy and as maintenance.
- Various novel agents targeting angiogenesis and other pathways are under investigation.
- The strategy of inhibiting angiogenesis is a promising approach for ovarian cancer.
Conclusions:
- Targeting angiogenesis is a viable and promising strategy for treating epithelial ovarian cancer.
- Bevacizumab offers a proven benefit in specific ovarian cancer treatment settings.
- Further research into novel agents and targets is crucial for improving patient outcomes.
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