Genomic-Based Therapy of Gynecologic Malignancies

Abstract

This paper will review the current status of genomic-based therapy of gynecologic malignancies. The routine “standard-of-care” delivery of targeted therapeutics based on the presence of specific molecular biomarkers in the management of the gynecologic malignancies has been delayed compared to the substantial progress made in several other tumor types.  However, relatively recently reported and rather robust phase 3 trial data have confirmed a potentially major role for PARP inhibitors as both active treatment and maintenance therapy of advanced ovarian cancer.  Further, data demonstrating the presence of a specific molecular phenotype (micro-satellite instability high – MSI-H) is a valid biomarker for the potential clinical utility of checkpoint inhibitor immunotherapy has relevance for all gynecologic malignancies, and particularly in the setting of metastatic or recurrent endometrial cancer.

Conclusions. The introduction of PARP inhibitors into the oncology armamentarium has substantially impacted standard-of-care strategies in the management of ovarian cancer. It is anticipated that the results of ongoing and future trials will further define the role of genomic-based therapy in ovarian cancer and other gynecologic malignancies.