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Updated: Jun 26, 2026
Surface-enhanced Resonance Raman Scattering Nanoprobe Ratiometry for Detecting Microscopic Ovarian Cancer via Folate Receptor Targeting
Published on: March 25, 2019
Consensus Statement from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada on Folate Receptor α Testing in Ovarian Cancer
Kim Ma1,2, Basile Tessier-Cloutier2, Alon D Altman3
1Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Jewish General Hospital, McGill University, Montréal, QC H3T 1E2, Canada.
Background:
Folate receptor alpha (FRα), commonly expressed in epithelial ovarian cancers, is a clinically actionable biomarker following approval of the antibody-drug conjugate mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV). Pivotal trials showed that high FRα expression predicts MIRV benefit, creating the need for standardized testing to ensure timely, equitable access.
Methods:
To address the need for guidance on FRα testing, the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada convened a multidisciplinary Expert Panel to review the evidence and integrate Canadian clinical, pathology, laboratory, and patient perspectives. Consensus recommendations were developed through structured evidence review, expert discussion, iterative revision, and patient partner input.
Results:
The panel issued recommendations on the clinical role and timing of FRα testing, tissue requirements, assay selection and validation, interpretation and reporting standards, laboratory quality assurance, reimbursement, and equitable access. It is recommended that FRα testing be available to all patients with epithelial ovarian cancer, with results available no later than platinum-resistant disease, using a validated assay, preferably the Ventana FOLR1 RxDx assay or an appropriately validated laboratory-developed test. Standardized synoptic reporting, participation in external quality assurance programs, and clear patient communication were deemed essential.
Conclusions:
These recommendations aim to promote integrated, equitable, standardized FRα testing across Canada and support timely identification of patients eligible for FRα-directed therapy, clinical trial enrollment, and future biomarker-driven treatment strategies.
Insights
Standardized testing for folate receptor alpha (FRα) is crucial for ovarian cancer patients. These Canadian guidelines ensure equitable access to FRα-directed therapies like mirvetuximab soravtansine.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomarker Development
- Clinical Pathology
Background:
- Folate receptor alpha (FRα) is a key biomarker in epithelial ovarian cancer.
- Its expression predicts benefit from mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV), an approved antibody-drug conjugate.
- Standardized FRα testing is needed for timely and equitable patient access.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop consensus recommendations for standardized FRα testing in Canada.
- To integrate clinical, pathology, laboratory, and patient perspectives.
- To ensure equitable access to FRα-targeted therapies.
Main Methods:
- A multidisciplinary Expert Panel was convened by the Society of Gynecologic Oncology of Canada.
- Recommendations were developed through structured evidence review and expert consensus.
- Patient partner input was integrated into the consensus process.
Main Results:
- Recommendations cover FRα testing timing, tissue needs, assay selection, and reporting.
- FRα testing should be available to all ovarian cancer patients, with results by platinum-resistant disease.
- Validated assays (Ventana FOLR1 RxDx or equivalent LDT) and standardized reporting are recommended.
Conclusions:
- These recommendations promote integrated and equitable FRα testing across Canada.
- Standardized testing facilitates timely identification of patients for FRα-directed therapies.
- The guidelines support clinical trial enrollment and future biomarker strategies.
