Ovarian cancer, which includes ovarian epithelial, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers, is a challenging and often aggressive disease. Although treatments have historically focused on surgery and chemotherapy, exciting new developments are providing renewed hope for those diagnosed.
Breakthroughs in Targeted Therapies
A major advancement in ovarian cancer treatment involves targeted therapies that specifically attack cancer cells, minimising harm to healthy cells. Monoclonal antibodies and PARP inhibitors are two promising approaches. Monoclonal antibodies, like bevacizumab, are engineered molecules that attach to proteins on the cancer cells themselves. Bevacizumab, combined with chemotherapy, prevents blood vessel growth necessary for tumours. Recently, the FDA approved mirvetuximab soravtansine, a monoclonal antibody that binds to spot receptors abundant on ovarian cancer cells. This “guided missile” approach delivers chemotherapy directly to cancer cells, doubling response rates for some patients.
PARP inhibitors, such as olaparib, are another crucial innovation. These drugs block DNA repair mechanisms in cancer cells, leading to their death. Olaparib is especially effective for patients with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, significantly increasing survival rates without recurrence. As a first-line treatment, it’s part of the initial therapy for newly diagnosed patients with these gene mutations.
Vaccines and Immunotherapy
Research is also advancing in immunotherapy, with hopes to one day use vaccines to prevent ovarian cancer recurrence. At the Mayo Clinic, scientists are developing a vaccine designed to train the immune system to recognise and attack ovarian cancer cells. The vaccine, paired with pembrolizumab—a drug that enhances immune responses—could target stubborn cancer cells. This combination is an exciting frontier in ovarian cancer research, offering new ways to keep the disease at bay.
Currently, there’s no screening test for ovarian cancer, but researchers like Dr. Jamie Bakkum-Gamez are exploring innovative methods. One promising approach involves identifying methylated DNA markers in vaginal fluid collected with a tampon, which could indicate cancer presence. While still in development, this technique could eventually lead to a home-based screening test, making early detection more accessible, particularly for rural communities.
Considering Clinical Trials
Patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer should consider speaking with a gynecologic oncologist about clinical trials. Participation in trials provides access to cutting-edge treatments, which can be life-saving if the cancer recurs. These new therapies, from targetted drugs to potential vaccines, highlight the strides being made in ovarian cancer treatment, highlighting the hope for a better future.
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