The Role of Androgen Receptor Signaling in Ovarian Cancer

Abstract

Emerging evidence has suggested that androgen receptor signaling plays an important role in ovarian cancer outgrowth. Specifically, androgen receptor activation appears to be associated with increased risks of developing ovarian cancer and inducing tumor progression. However, conflicting findings have also been reported. This review summarizes and discusses the available data indicating the involvement of androgens as well as androgen receptor and related signals in ovarian carcinogenesis and cancer growth. Although the underlying molecular mechanisms for androgen receptor functions in ovarian cancer remain far from being fully understood, current observations may offer effective chemopreventive and therapeutic approaches, via modulation of androgen receptor activity, against ovarian cancer. Indeed, several clinical trials have been conducted to determine the efficacy of androgen deprivation therapy in patients with ovarian cancer.

A case report of androgen receptor inhibitor therapy in recurrent high-grade serous ovarian cancer

“…In a Phase II study of single agent enzalutamide in AR positive recurrent ovarian cancer ≥ 5% AR expression by IHC was considered positive [20]. The activation of AR leads to its nuclear localization and regulation of expression of genes involved in different physiological and pathological functions [21]. AR signalling has been associated with tumorigenesis and metastasis of cancers such as prostate, bladder, kidney, lung, breast, liver and ovary.…”

“…AR signalling has been associated with tumorigenesis and metastasis of cancers such as prostate, bladder, kidney, lung, breast, liver and ovary. Androgens have been shown to involved in cell proliferation and invasion of ovarian cancer cells suggesting targeting AR as a capable treatment choice [21,22]. AR targeted therapies have been widely employed in breast and prostate cancers [23][24][25].…”

Vinculin presents unfavorable prediction in ovarian cancer and prevents proliferation and migration of ovarian cancer cells

“…[3] Although with significant advances in the treatment, ovarian cancer still represents high mortality due to the asymptomatic behavior and advanced stage at diagnosis. [4] The 5-year survival rate is unfavorable in individuals with high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma, and therefore, early-stage detection may significantly decrease the death rates. [5] Currently, the detecting methods for ovarian cancer include biomarkers and transvaginal ultrasonography.…”

Sinomenine hydrochloride exerts antitumor outcome in ovarian cancer cells by inhibition of long non-coding RNA HOST2 expression

“…Ovarian cancer is a devastating gynecological malignant tumour, disturbing approximate 2-3% of women all over the world [1]. Even though substantial improvements have been undertaken for management approaches, ovarian cancer still characterises high mortality [2]. It has been reported that the 5-year survival rates are still below 45% due to the asymptomatic behaviour and the advanced stage at diagnosis [3].…”