Comprehensive genomic profiling (CGP) of ovarian clear cell carcinomas (OCCC) identifies clinically relevant genomic

Julia A Elvin1, Justin Chura2, Laurie M Gay1

  • 1Foundation Medicine, Inc., Cambridge, MA, United States.

Insights

Mutations in the mTOR pathway are common in ovarian clear cell carcinomas (OCCC). Targeting these specific mTOR pathway alterations with everolimus can lead to significant and durable patient responses.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Ovarian clear cell carcinoma (OCCC) is an aggressive gynecologic malignancy.
  • The mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway plays a critical role in cell growth and proliferation.
  • Genetic alterations in the mTOR pathway are frequently observed in various cancers.

Observation:

  • A significant subset of OCCC cases harbor mutations exclusively within the mTOR pathway.
  • These targetable alterations represent a specific vulnerability in OCCC.

Findings:

  • Approximately 11.2% of OCCC exhibit targetable genetic alterations solely within the mTOR pathway.
  • Mutations in the mTOR pathway are associated with potent and sustained responses to the drug everolimus.

Implications:

  • This highlights the therapeutic potential of mTOR inhibitors in OCCC.
  • Identifying mTOR pathway alterations can guide personalized treatment strategies for OCCC patients.
  • Further investigation into mTOR-targeted therapies is warranted for this disease.