Deciphering resistance mechanisms and novel strategies to overcome drug resistance in ovarian cancer: a comprehensive review

Oncol Res. 2024 Apr 23;32(5):831-847. doi: 10.32604/or.2024.031006. eCollection 2024.

Abstract

Ovarian cancer is among the most lethal gynecological cancers, primarily due to the lack of specific symptoms leading to an advanced-stage diagnosis and resistance to chemotherapy. Drug resistance (DR) poses the most significant challenge in treating patients with existing drugs. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently approved three new therapeutic drugs, including two poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors (olaparib and niraparib) and one vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor (bevacizumab) for maintenance therapy. However, resistance to these new drugs has emerged. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of DR and exploring new approaches to overcome them is crucial for effective management. In this review, we summarize the major molecular mechanisms of DR and discuss novel strategies to combat DR.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Drug resistance mechanisms; Ovarian cancer; PARP inhibitors; VEGF inhibitor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Drug Resistance, Neoplasm*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / metabolism
  • Ovarian Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors* / pharmacology
  • Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors* / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Poly(ADP-ribose) Polymerase Inhibitors
  • Antineoplastic Agents