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Molecular landscape of borderline ovarian tumours: A systematic review
Pawel Sadlecki1,2, Malgorzata Walentowicz-Sadlecka1,2
1Medical Department, University of Science and Technology, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
Abstract:
Borderline ovarian tumours (BOTs) show intriguing characteristics distinguishing them from other ovarian tumours. The aim of the systematic review was to analyse the spectrum of molecular changes found in BOTs and discuss their significance in the context of the overall therapeutic approach. The systematic review included articles published between 2000 and 2023 in the databases: PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane. After a detailed analysis of the available publications, we qualified for the systematic review: 28 publications on proto-oncogenes: BRAF, KRAS, NRAS, ERBB2, and PIK3CA, 20 publications on tumour suppressor genes: BRCA1/2, ARID1A, CHEK2, PTEN, 4 on adhesion molecules: CADM1, 8 on proteins: B-catenin, claudin-1, and 5 on glycoproteins: E-Cadherin. In addition, in the further part of the systematic review, we included eight publications on microsatellite instability and three describing loss of heterozygosity in BOT. Molecular changes found in BOTs can vary on a case-by-case basis, identifying carcinogenic mutations through molecular analysis and developing targeted therapies represent significant advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian malignancies. Molecular studies have contributed significantly to our understanding of BOT pathogenesis, but substantial research is still required to elucidate the relationship between ovarian neoplasms and extraneous disease, identify accurate prognostic indicators, and develop targeted therapeutic approaches.
Insights
Molecular analysis of borderline ovarian tumours (BOTs) reveals diverse genetic alterations. Identifying these mutations aids in developing targeted therapies for ovarian cancer, though further research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Borderline ovarian tumours (BOTs) possess unique characteristics differentiating them from other ovarian neoplasms.
- Understanding the molecular landscape of BOTs is crucial for advancing diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and analyze the spectrum of molecular alterations in BOTs.
- To discuss the significance of these molecular changes in the context of therapeutic approaches for ovarian malignancies.
Main Methods:
- A systematic review of articles published between 2000 and 2023 from PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane databases.
- Analysis of publications focusing on proto-oncogenes, tumor suppressor genes, adhesion molecules, proteins, glycoproteins, microsatellite instability, and loss of heterozygosity in BOTs.
Main Results:
- The review identified numerous molecular changes in BOTs, including alterations in BRAF, KRAS, NRAS, ERBB2, PIK3CA, BRCA1/2, ARID1A, CHEK2, PTEN, CADM1, beta-catenin, claudin-1, and E-cadherin.
- Microsatellite instability and loss of heterozygosity were also documented in BOTs, indicating complex genetic events.
Conclusions:
- Molecular analysis of BOTs reveals a variable spectrum of genetic alterations, highlighting the need for individualized therapeutic strategies.
- Identifying specific carcinogenic mutations through molecular profiling represents a significant advancement in diagnosing and treating ovarian cancers, though further research is essential.
