Challenges and Opportunities in Studying the Epidemiology of Ovarian Cancer Subtypes

Abstract

Purpose of review Only recently has it become clear that epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is comprised of such distinct histotypes--with different cells of origin, morphology, molecular features, epidemiologic factors, clinical features, and survival patterns—that they can be thought of as different diseases sharing an anatomical location. Herein, we review opportunities and challenges in studying EOC heterogeneity, Recent findings The 2014 World Health Organization diagnostic guidelines incorporate accumulated evidence that high- and low-grade serous tumors have different underlying pathogenesis, and that, on the basis of shared molecular features, most high grade tumors, including some previously classified as endometrioid, are now considered to be high-grade serous. At the same time, several studies have reported that high-grade serous EOC, which is the most common histotype, is itself made up of reproducible subtypes discernable by gene expression patterns. Summary These major advances in understanding set the stage for a new era of research on EOC risk and clinical outcomes with the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality. We highlight the need for multidisciplinary studies with pathology review using the current guidelines, further molecular characterization of the histotypes and subtypes, inclusion of women of diverse racial/ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, and updated epidemiologic and clinical data relevant to current generations of women at risk of EOC.

Leptin Receptor Antagonists' Action on HDAC Expression Eliminating the Negative Effects of Leptin in Ovarian Cancer

“…The majority of studies showed the enhanced expression of class I HDACs in solid human tumours and in locally advanced, dedifferentiated, strongly proliferating tumours. There is a growing body of evidence that the expression of class I HDACs is increased in ovarian carcinomas (4), and this is suspected not only of playing a significant role in carcinogenesis, but also of contributing towards resistance to chemotherapeutic agents used for treating ovarian cancer (23). This is in agreement with our observation that the highest expression was observed in OVCAR-3 cells.…”

“…A common finding in cancer cells is the overexpression of HDACs and their increased activity, leading to the altered expression and activity of numerous proteins involved in carcinogenesis. Although the knowledge of ovarian cancer is growing, there is still no proper therapy for the prevention and treatment of this type of cancer (4). There is a growing body of evidence showing that the expression of class I HDACs is increased in ovarian carcinomas (5)(6)(7) and this is suspected not only of playing a significant role in carcinogenesis, but also of contributing toward resistance to chemotherapeutic agents used for treating ovarian cancer.…”

Estrogen enhances the proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells by activating transient receptor potential channel C3

“…EOC represents the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer among women globally and has a 46% 5year survival rate after diagnosis. One of the main factors contributing to the high death-to-incidence ratio is the advanced stage of disease at the time of diagnosis [2]. The cause of this disease is not clear.…”

Ten‐year follow‐up study of long‐term outcomes after conservative surgery for early‐stage ovarian cancer

“…Ovarian cancer (OC) is one of the most common cancers with a high mortality rate, causing approximately 140 000 deaths each year in the United States 1 . It represents the seventh most commonly diagnosed cancer among women worldwide with an estimated 5‐year survival of 40%–45% 2,3 . The poor survival outcomes of women with OC are related to extensive peritoneal spread at the time of diagnosis.…”