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Next Generation Sequencing and Molecular Biomarkers in Ovarian Cancer-An Opportunity for Targeted Therapy
Laura M Harbin1, Holly H Gallion1, Derek B Allison2
1Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY 40536-0596, USA.
Abstract:
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of all gynecologic malignancies claiming the lives of nearly 14,000 women in the United States annually. Despite therapeutic advances, the ovarian cancer mortality rate has remained stagnant since the 1980's. The molecular heterogeneity of ovarian cancers suggest they may be more effectively treated via precision medicine. Current guidelines recommend germline and somatic testing for all new epithelial ovarian cancer diagnoses to assist providers in identifying candidates for targeted therapies. Next generation sequencing (NGS) identifies targetable, driver, and novel mutations used to guide treatment decisions. Performing NGS is standard of care in many other malignancies, but for ovarian cancer the use of NGS in daily practice is still emerging. This review discusses the targetable genetic mutations and role of NGS and molecular biomarker testing in the treatment of ovarian cancer.
Insights
Ovarian cancer, a leading gynecologic malignancy, shows stagnant mortality rates despite advances. Precision medicine, guided by next-generation sequencing (NGS) and molecular biomarker testing, offers new hope for targeted ovarian cancer treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Ovarian cancer remains a leading cause of gynecologic cancer deaths, with stagnant mortality rates since the 1980s.
- The molecular complexity of ovarian tumors necessitates personalized treatment approaches.
- Current guidelines advocate for genetic testing in epithelial ovarian cancer to identify patients eligible for targeted therapies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review targetable genetic mutations in ovarian cancer.
- To explore the emerging role of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in clinical practice for ovarian cancer.
- To discuss the utility of molecular biomarker testing in guiding ovarian cancer treatment decisions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on ovarian cancer genetics and treatment.
- Analysis of the application of next-generation sequencing (NGS) in identifying actionable mutations.
- Evaluation of molecular biomarker testing in precision oncology for ovarian cancer.
Main Results:
- Next-generation sequencing (NGS) identifies targetable, driver, and novel mutations crucial for treatment selection.
- Molecular heterogeneity in ovarian cancers supports a precision medicine strategy.
- NGS is becoming a standard in other cancers, with its use in ovarian cancer practice still developing.
Conclusions:
- Precision medicine, utilizing NGS and molecular biomarker testing, holds significant potential for improving ovarian cancer outcomes.
- Targeted therapies guided by genetic insights can overcome treatment resistance.
- Widespread adoption of NGS in ovarian cancer management is anticipated to enhance patient care.
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