Predictive genetic markers for targeted therapy in gynaecological cancers: bridging the gap between “one-size-fits-all” and personalized treatment

Recently, more targeted therapies opened up a completely new era in treatment of gynaecological malignancies, which could help to turn around the “one-size-fits-all” approach. Different than the traditional therapies which inhibit cell division of all cells, they inhibit the cancer cell growth by interfering with the cell’s environment. A paradigm shift is created regarding more durable responses with survival benefit and improved quality of life relative to conventional therapies. We expect these targeted therapies will represent the cornerstone of future treatment of gynaecological malignancies and will be standardly introduced early in the course of the disease to quickly achieve remission and stop disease progression. However, up to now little is known about the ideal position and timing in the treatment strategy and which patients in particular will benefit. Our goal is to cross the bridge towards a more personalized medicine by determine the right therapy, for the right patient, at the right time. We will do this by comparing differences in underlying genes and gene expression profiles. Blood samples and tumor biopsies will therefore be collected. By identifying genetic biomarkers that can predict response to therapy or recognize early relapse, this project will lead to more individualized therapies with maximum efficacy and minimum risks for patients. In addition, we believe it can reduce health care costs and thus help maintain a sustainable health care system.

Keywords:Ovarian Cancer, PARP-inhibition, Targeted therapy, HRD, Cervical cancer, Immunotherapy

Disciplines:Cancer biology