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Updated: Dec 8, 2025
Murine Model for Non-invasive Imaging to Detect and Monitor Ovarian Cancer Recurrence
Published on: November 2, 2014
Development of new medical treatment for epithelial ovarian cancer recurrence
Rosanna Mancari1, Giuseppe Cutillo1, Valentina Bruno1
1Department of Experimental Clinical Oncology, Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
Abstract:
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the scariest gynaecological cancer. Many advances have been done with evolving knowledge, leading to the introduction of new drugs, most in maintenance setting. The antiangiogenic Bevacizumab and the three approved PARP-inhibitors-olaparib, niraparib and rucaparib-are gradually improving PFS of patients with EOC, with initial effects on OS too. But recurrence is still a heavy sentence and lethality continues to be high. Ovarian cancer is a complex disease, with different clinical presentation, histological aspect, and molecular expression, leading to disappointing results, when using a single drug. Implementation of biobanking and analysis of patients' tumour samples, before starting a treatment, could be a promising way to better understand molecular aspects of this disease, to identify markers predictive of response and to allow a better use of experimental drugs, as immunomodulators, targeted therapies, and combinations of these, to fight tumour growth and clinical progression. We reviewed the literature on the updated treatments for recurrent ovarian cancer, summarizing all the available drugs and combinations to treat patients with this diagnosis, and focusing the attention on the new approved molecules and the contemporary Clinical Trials, investigating new target therapies and new associations.
Insights
Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) treatment advances include new drugs like Bevacizumab and PARP-inhibitors, improving progression-free survival. Personalized medicine through tumor sample analysis is key to overcoming recurrence and high lethality in this complex gynecological cancer.
Area of Science:
- Gynecological Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) remains a leading cause of gynecological cancer mortality.
- Despite advances, recurrence and high lethality persist, highlighting treatment limitations.
- Current treatments, including Bevacizumab and PARP-inhibitors, offer improved progression-free survival but not cures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review updated treatments for recurrent ovarian cancer.
- To summarize approved drugs, combinations, and ongoing clinical trials.
- To emphasize the potential of personalized medicine for improved outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of updated treatments for recurrent ovarian cancer.
- Analysis of approved drugs, combinations, and clinical trials.
- Focus on novel targeted therapies and combination strategies.
Main Results:
- Bevacizumab and PARP-inhibitors (olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib) have improved progression-free survival in EOC.
- Recurrence remains a significant challenge, with continued high lethality.
- Personalized approaches using tumor biobanking and molecular analysis show promise.
Conclusions:
- Personalized medicine, including biobanking and molecular profiling, is crucial for understanding EOC and predicting treatment response.
- Novel targeted therapies, immunomodulators, and drug combinations are essential to combat tumor growth and progression.
- Further research into new therapeutic strategies and clinical trials is vital for improving patient outcomes in recurrent ovarian cancer.
