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Updated: Mar 20, 2026

Ovarian Cancer Patient-Derived Organoid Models for Pre-Clinical Drug Testing
Published on: September 15, 2023
Updates on drug discovery in ovarian cancer
Steven J Gibson1, Krishnansu S Tewari2, Bradley J Monk1
1The Division of Gynecologic Oncology, University of Arizona Cancer Center, 500 West Thomas Road, Suite 600, Phoenix, AZ 85013 USA ; Creighton University School of Medicine, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, A Dignity Health Member, 500 West Thomas Road, Suite 600, Phoenix, AZ 85013 USA.
Abstract:
Drug discovery in the ovarian cancer arena continues to launch important new clinical trials. Many biologic agents are being studied in phase II and phase III clinical trials for recurrent disease. These agents include compounds that disrupt angiogenesis through a variety of mechanisms. Other oncogenic pathways are also specifically targeted such as PARP, MEK, and topoisomerase inhibitors which are currently being studied in phase III trials. Various cytotoxic agents, as well as therapeutic vaccines, are also under investigation, and continue to demonstrate promising new data. The relevant agents in the treatment of ovarian cancer which have demonstrated positive phase II activity will be discussed.
Insights
New ovarian cancer treatments are advancing through clinical trials, focusing on biologic agents, angiogenesis inhibitors, and targeted therapies like PARP and MEK inhibitors for recurrent disease.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Clinical Trials
Background:
- Ovarian cancer drug discovery is actively progressing with numerous new clinical trials.
- Recurrent ovarian cancer is a focus for many biologic agents currently in phase II and III trials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss relevant agents in ovarian cancer treatment.
- To highlight agents demonstrating positive phase II activity.
Main Methods:
- Review of ongoing phase II and III clinical trials for ovarian cancer.
- Analysis of biologic agents targeting angiogenesis and oncogenic pathways.
- Investigation of cytotoxic agents and therapeutic vaccines.
Main Results:
- Multiple biologic agents are under investigation for recurrent ovarian cancer.
- Targeted therapies including PARP, MEK, and topoisomerase inhibitors are in phase III trials.
- Cytotoxic agents and therapeutic vaccines show promising new data.
Conclusions:
- Significant advancements in ovarian cancer drug discovery are evident through ongoing clinical trials.
- Various therapeutic strategies, including targeted agents and biologics, show promise for treating recurrent ovarian cancer.

