New therapies for ovarian cancer: cytotoxics and molecularly targeted agents

Crit Rev Oncol Hematol. 2008 Aug;67(2):103-12. doi: 10.1016/j.critrevonc.2008.01.012. Epub 2008 Mar 14.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer, although a chemo-sensitive disease, is associated with high morbidity and mortality due to its often-late presentation. Platinums and taxanes have improved the prognosis over recent years but median overall survival is still unacceptably low (24-60 months). Apart from the manipulation of doses, schedules, mode of delivery, and combinations of existing drugs, new cytotoxics and molecularly targeted agents with different mechanisms of action must be evaluated in this patient population. This article will review the most recent clinical trials data pertaining to these new cytotoxic drugs including patupilone, telcyta, and trabectedin, as well as those of small molecules and inhibitors of the EGFR and VEGF receptor families. It will also discuss other potential signal transduction targets worthy of further evaluation in future trials.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use*
  • ErbB Receptors / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / drug therapy*
  • Receptors, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor / antagonists & inhibitors

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • ErbB Receptors
  • Receptors, Platelet-Derived Growth Factor
  • Receptors, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor