Dr. Gershenson on Evolution of Targeted Therapies for Rare Gynecologic Malignancies

David M. Gershenson, MD, professor, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, discusses the evolution of targeted therapies for patients with rare gynecologic malignancies.

Much progress has been made in understanding the molecular biology of and development of therapies for ovarian cancer over the last decade, Gershenson explains. In recurrent low-grade serous carcinoma, MEK inhibitors have shown to be effective. Other genes involved in the pathogenesis may be targetable, he adds. Additionally, bevacizumab has demonstrated efficacy in serous carcinoma.

In clear cell carcinoma of the endometrium, the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway is abnormal in a significantly high number of patients, demonstrating another area that may be targetable. Researchers are currently working to develop novel agents and combine them with translational research endpoints.