The rise of genomic profiling in ovarian cancer

Next-generation sequencing and advances in 'omics technology have rapidly increased our understanding of the molecular landscape of epithelial ovarian cancers. Areas covered: Once characterized only by histologic appearance and clinical behavior, we now understand many of the molecular phenotypes that underlie the different ovarian cancer subtypes. While the current approach to treatment involves standard cytotoxic therapies after cytoreductive surgery for all ovarian cancers regardless of histologic or molecular characteristics, focus has shifted beyond a 'one size fits all' approach to ovarian cancer. Expert commentary: Genomic profiling offers potentially 'actionable' opportunities for development of targeted therapies and a more individualized approach to treatment with concomitant improved outcomes and decreased toxicity.