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Molecular Alterations in Metastatic Ovarian Cancer From Gastrointestinal Cancer
Chao Chen1, Xiaoxu Ge1,2, Yamei Zhao1
1Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology, Key Laboratory of Cancer Prevention and Intervention, Ministry of Education, The Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
Abstract:
Reports indicate that most metastatic ovarian cancer (MOC) originates from gastrointestinal cancer (GIC). Notably, GICs metastasize to the ovary frequently via 3 main routes including hematogenous spread, lymphogenous spread, and transcoelomic spread. Nonetheless, the mechanism of the progression remains unknown, and only a handful of literature exists on the molecular alteration implicated in MOC from GIC. This work collected existing evidence and literature on the vital molecules of the metastatic pathway and systematically analyzed them geared toward exploring the mechanism of the metastatic pathway of MOC. Further, this review described dominating molecular alteration in the metastatic process from cancer cells detaching away from lesions to arrive at the ovary, including factors for regulating signaling pathways in epithelial-interstitial transformation, invading, and surviving in the circulatory system or abdominal cavity. We interrogated the basis of the ovary as a distant metastatic site. This article provides new insights into the metastatic pathway and generates novel therapeutic targets for effective treatment and satisfactory outcomes in GIC patients.
Insights
Most metastatic ovarian cancer (MOC) arises from gastrointestinal cancer (GIC). This review explores molecular pathways driving GIC metastasis to the ovary, identifying potential therapeutic targets for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Cancer Metastasis Research
Background:
- Metastatic ovarian cancer (MOC) frequently originates from gastrointestinal cancer (GIC).
- GIC metastasis to the ovary occurs via hematogenous, lymphogenous, and transcoelomic routes.
- The precise molecular mechanisms underlying GIC metastasis to the ovary remain largely unelucidated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically analyze existing literature on molecular alterations in MOC from GIC.
- To explore the molecular mechanisms driving the metastatic pathway of MOC.
- To identify novel therapeutic targets for GIC patients with ovarian metastasis.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review and evidence synthesis.
- Systematic analysis of vital molecules involved in the metastatic pathway.
- Interrogation of molecular factors regulating cancer cell detachment, invasion, and survival during metastasis.
Main Results:
- Detailed description of dominant molecular alterations during GIC metastasis to the ovary.
- Identification of key signaling pathways involved in epithelial-mesenchymal transition, invasion, and survival.
- Analysis of factors contributing to the ovary's susceptibility as a metastatic site.
Conclusions:
- Provides novel insights into the metastatic pathway of MOC from GIC.
- Highlights critical molecular events in GIC metastasis to the ovary.
- Suggests potential novel therapeutic targets for treating metastatic GIC in the ovary.
