Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, licensed genetic counselor and clinical associate professor of Human Genetics in the Department of Internal Medicine at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discusses ongoing biomarker research efforts in ovarian cancer.

The search for effective biomarkers that might predict response to treatment in patients with ovarian cancer continues, says Senter. Despite many research efforts that have already been made, investigators are just scratching the surface of all there is to learn about biomarkers in this space.

 mutations will behave the same way in cells. Likewise, genes that work in the same pathway may not behave in the same way either. As such, molecular studies are vital to ovarian cancer research, explains Senter.

The challenge is that the way that different clinical trials define biomarkers can vary. Furthermore, many options are now available. The ultimate goal is to determine what the molecular signature is in order to choose an appropriate corresponding therapy, according to Senter. To achieve such a goal, more progress needs to be made, concludes Senter.

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Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, discusses ongoing biomarker research efforts in ovarian cancer.

Biomarker Research in Ovarian Cancer

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, associate professor, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discusses optimal testing methods in ovarian cancer.

Every patient with an ovarian cancer diagnosis should have germline testing and tumor testing done, but it is not always feasible or practical, says Senter. There can be obstacles for some patients when trying to undergo germline and tumor testing. Some of these obstacles include payer policies and logistics within the clinic. However, conducting germline testing only on certain patients leaves room for missing tests of a large percentage of patients who might have a somatic mutation and be eligible for a given therapy.

Utilizing tumor testing alone cannot distinguish between germline and somatic mutations. This causes missed opportunities to prevent the occurrence of cancer in family members. There are also certain kinds of mutations that are not easily detectable in tumor tissue with current technology. Both germline and tumor testing are best, but one assay is better than none, concludes Senter.

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, discusses optimal testing methods in ovarian cancer.
 
 

Optimal Testing Methods in Ovarian Cancer

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, associate professor, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discusses the development of genetic testing in ovarian cancer.

With the identification of biomarkers in ovarian cancer, for which there are targeted therapies available, there is more incentive to perform adequate genetic testing to all patients; however, that goal has not been met, explains Senter. Many centers have gathered together to make genetic testing more accessible to patients, but progress is still needed, says Senter.

Recent data show that 50% of patients with ovarian cancer receive germline testing, a number that has improved dramatically over the years, according to Senter. Some centers have improved their testing rates to 80% or 90% by making minimal practice changes and assigning 1 person in the center as the head of genetic testing, concludes Senter.

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, discusses the development of genetic testing in ovarian cancer.

The Development of Genetic Testing in Ovarian Cancer

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, associate professor, Division of Human Genetics, Department of Internal Medicine, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, discusses the implications of identifying genes beyond 

There are a number of other gene alterations that carry an increased risk of developing cancer, says Senter. These mutations can help shed light on the origin of the cancer, and can indicate whether further testing for other cancers should be considered. Also, they can guide screening and treatment interventions for family members who may be at risk. 

Further investigation with these mutations may lead to additional targeted therapies, concludes Senter. 

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC, discusses the implications of identifying genes beyond BRCA1/2 in women with ovarian cancer. 
 

Leigha Senter, MS, LGC

Articles

Biomarker Research in Ovarian Cancer

Optimal Testing Methods in Ovarian Cancer

The Development of Genetic Testing in Ovarian Cancer

Potential of Genetic Testing Beyond BRCA1/2 in Ovarian Cancer