Precision medicine for hereditary tumors in gynecologic malignancies

J Obstet Gynaecol Res. 2021 Aug;47(8):2597-2606. doi: 10.1111/jog.14861. Epub 2021 May 25.

Abstract

Genomic medicine for gynecologic tumors is characterized by hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) and Lynch syndrome (LS). Poly ADP-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitor, olaparib, and the immune checkpoint inhibitor, pembrolizumab, which are drugs that show sensitivity to each hereditary tumor, have begun to spread in clinical practice for gynecologic malignancies. In clinical use, platinum sensitivity is used as a clinical surrogate marker for olaparib sensitivity, and microsatellite instability is used as a biological surrogate marker for pembrolizumab sensitivity. BRCA genetic testing and microsatellite instability test have been used as companion diagnostics before starting olaparib and pembrolizumab treatment, respectively. Homologous recombination deficiency test could be used for companion diagnostic of olaparib combination with bevacizumab in first-line maintenance treatment and niraparib without re-administration of platinum agents in the treatment of recurrence. The approval of the three drugs has been changing the treatment of gynecologic malignancies. Furthermore, preventive medical care has been covered by insurance since April 2020 for breast and/or ovarian cancer patients with germline BRCA1/2 mutation in Japan. This review article outlines the current status and future prospects of precision medicine for gynecologic hereditary tumors focusing on HBOC and LS.

Keywords: Hereditary Tumor; Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer; Lynch syndrome; PARP inhibitor; Risk-reducing surgery.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • BRCA1 Protein
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female* / drug therapy
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female* / genetics
  • Humans
  • Japan
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Ovarian Neoplasms*
  • Precision Medicine

Substances

  • BRCA1 Protein