Individualization in the first-line treatment of advanced ovarian cancer based on the mechanism of action of molecularly targeted drugs

Abstract

With the development of poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors, the treatment of advanced ovarian cancer is changing dramatically. The purpose of this narrative review is to provide a direction for the individualization of advanced ovarian cancer treatment based on the mechanism of action of molecularly targeted drugs currently used in Japan. The PAOLA-1 study showed very good progression-free survival in patients with homologous recombination deficiency tumors who underwent complete surgery with primary debulking surgery and who received olaparib plus bevacizumab. Niraparib has high intratumor penetration, and in a subgroup analysis of the PRIMA study, it was most effective in patients with residual tumors after interval debulking surgery. These data suggest the importance of achieving complete surgery and aiming for cure in the treatment of ovarian cancer and how the use of bevacizumab, olaparib, and niraparib should be individualized.

Keywords: Molecularly targeted drug; Ovarian cancer; PARP inhibitor.