Developing Gene Therapy Techniques for Ovarian Cancer

Setsuko K. Chambers, M.D.,Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ovarian cancer, which has the highest mortality rate among gynecological cancers, usually presents after it has metastasized (spread) tumors throughout the abdominal cavity. As ovarian cancer is unlikely to be detected in its earliest stages, scientists must continue to strive to develop effective treatments for this disease. In order to stem the progression of this disease, it is necessary to identify the molecular processes by which cancer cells spread to other organs.

Highlighted Study Findings

This investigation found preliminary evidence for the effectiveness of a gene therapy-type approach to reducing the invasiveness and metastasis of ovarian cancer in an animal model. Gene therapy in cancer treatment involves introducing genetic material into tumor cells to help destroy the cells or prevent their spread. These findings showed how molecular processes behaved within the ovarian cancer cell, thus advancing the development of gene therapy as a more effective treatment for ovarian cancer.