Ovarian cancer comprises a diverse group of neoplasms originating from ovarian tissues. While epithelial ovarian carcinomas are the most prevalent, several rare subtypes present unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Alfa Cytology has dedicated over a decade to the study of these rare ovarian cancers, striving to explore and understand the complexities of these diseases in depth.
Introduction to Rare Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a complex spectrum of malignancies that arise from the various tissues of the ovary. Although the majority of these cancers are classified as epithelial ovarian carcinomas, which are the most frequently diagnosed, there is a constellation of rare subtypes that pose distinctive challenges in terms of diagnosis and treatment.
Fig 1. Outlining the mechanisms by which obesity and diabetes influence ovarian cancer. (KHANLARKHANI N, et al., 2022)
Classification of Rare Ovarian Cancer
According to the fifth edition of the WHO Histological Classification of Ovarian Tumours (2020), these rare ovarian cancers can be categorized based on their histological features.
| Rare Ovarian Cancer |
Description |
| Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary |
Small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), is a rare, aggressive ovarian tumor known for secreting parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) that leads to hypercalcemia. The tumor features small, rounded, or spindle-shaped cells with high nuclear division activity. |
| Clear Cell Carcinoma |
Clear cell tumors (CCTs), a rare ovarian neoplasm subtype, are characterized by cells with clear or eosinophilic cytoplasm and notable cellular heterogeneity and invasiveness in malignant cases. |
| Brenner Tumor |
Brenner tumors most are benign and composed of cells resembling urothelial epithelium. They typically present as unicompartmental or multicompartmental cystic masses, often containing areas of hardened calcification within their walls. |
| Serous Tumours |
Serous tumors encompass a spectrum of ovarian neoplasms, ranging from benign forms such as cystadenomas and adenofibromas, through borderline or potentially malignant serous tumors, to overtly malignant lesions. |
| Mucinous Tumours |
Mucinous tumors, are characterized by mucus-producing epithelial cells and typically present as cystic structures filled with abundant mucus. Histologically, these tumors may exhibit cellular anisotropy and, in malignant cases, invasive growth. |
Pipeline of Therapeutic Development for Rare Ovarian Cancer
|
Company |
Targets |
Name |
Molecule Type |
Phase |
| Pfizer |
PARP Inhibitor |
PF-07104091 |
Small Molecule |
|
| Merck |
PD-1 Receptor |
KEYTRUDA |
Antibody |
|
| GlaxoSmithKline |
Poly (ADP-Ribose) Polymerase (PARP) 1/2 Inhibitor |
Niraparib Zejula |
Small Molecule |
|
| Novartis |
PI3K-Alpha Inhibitor |
Piqray® |
Small Molecule |
|
| ImmunoGen |
FRα |
GLORIOSA |
Small Molecule |
|
Our Services
Alfa Cytology has in-depth insight and comprehensive knowledge of many rare ovarian cancers, and we are committed to advancing scientific discovery and medical advances in this field to bring about more accurate diagnosis and more effective treatment options.
Cell Lines of Rare Ovarian Cancer
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary
Clear Cell Carcinoma
Brenner Tumor
Serous Tumours
Mucinous Tumours
Ovarian Cancer Model Development for Preclinical Studies
Selection of Cell Lines and Animal Models
Choose rare, representative ovarian cancer cell lines and create animal models with immunodeficient mice to mimic human tumor growth and metastasis, ensuring study validity.
Tumor Cell Transplantation and Monitoring
Transplant tumor cells into animal models via intraperitoneal or subcutaneous injection. Regularly measure tumor volume and use imaging and biomarkers for growth and treatment response evaluation.
Preclinical Studies
Assess various chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy regimens for tumor efficacy. Conduct histological and molecular studies to understand tumor biology and treatment mechanisms, supporting future clinical trials.
Equipped with a wealth of experience in researching rare ovarian cancers, Alfa Cytology is capable of conducting a diverse array of research programs. If you harbor a passion for exploring the mysteries of rare ovarian cancers, please do not hesitate to
contact us at any time and we look forward to talking to you.
Reference
- KHANLARKHANI N, AZIZI E, AMIDI F, et al. Metabolic risk factors of ovarian cancer: a review [J]. JBRA Assist Reprod, 2022, 26(2): 335-47.
! For research use only.
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