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Ovarian cancer: new treatment pathways through genetics
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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A new study that sought to identify the genetic makeup of ovarian cancer cells may shed light on why some women with the disease live longer than others.
A team of scientists led by the McGill University Health Sciences Research Institute has conducted a study identifying genetic patterns in ovarian cancer tumors that could help differentiate patients based on how long they survive after their first operation.
"We have discovered genetic differences in ovarian tumors in women with cancer," explains Dr. Patricia Tonin, lead author of the study. "With these genetic 'tools' we will be able to study the type of tumor at an early stage of development, as well as offer women alternative treatments that exclude surgery."
According to health authorities, there are more than 2,000 cases of ovarian cancer in Canada each year, and 75% of women with the disease die within five years of diagnosis.
In this study, the scientists focused on serous ovarian cancer, which is the cause of death for almost 90% of patients. Serous ovarian cancer accounts for about one-third of all epithelial ovarian tumors.
According to the WHO definition, serous cancer is an oncological disease that is histogenetically associated with the lining of the ovary and reflects the differentiation of tumor cells towards the lining of the fallopian tube.
Almost all women diagnosed with serous ovarian cancer have mutations in the TP53 gene, which is also called the "guardian of the genome." It is responsible for the production of the p53 protein, which is a determining factor in the development of various types of tumors and is expressed in all cells of the body. Disruption of the normal functioning of this protein leads to the development of high-grade ovarian cancer.
This is supported by the fact that loss of function of this protein is found in almost 50% of human malignant tumors.
Scientists have concluded that the existing genetic differences between the two types of serous ovarian cancer may be associated with the TP53 gene, mutations in which cause this difference.
"This unique discovery expands our ability to identify factors involved in cancer progression. Developing alternative treatments will help reduce the risks of morbidity and mortality in women."
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