Ovarian cancer as a genetic disease

Front Biosci (Landmark Ed). 2013 Jan 1;18(2):543-63. doi: 10.2741/4119.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer is characterized by the highest mortality rate among gynecologic malignancies. Therefore, there is a growing need for innovative therapies and techniques for monitoring and prevention of this disease. The exact cause of most ovarian tumors usually remains unknown. Ovarian cancer is believed to be caused by a range of different variables. This review is an attempt to summarize some genetic factors involved in the disruption of certain signaling pathways responsible for ovarian tumor transformation and development. Those factors considerably contribute to accurate diagnostics, treatment and prognosis in ovarian cancer.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Transformation, Neoplastic / genetics*
  • Female
  • Genes, BRCA1 / physiology
  • Genes, BRCA2 / physiology
  • Genes, p53 / physiology
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Precancerous Conditions / genetics*
  • Prognosis
  • Signal Transduction / genetics