Characteristics of in Vivo Model Systems for Ovarian Cancer Studies

Abstract

An understanding of the molecular pathogenesis and heterogeneity of ovarian cancer holds promise for the development of early detection strategies and novel, efficient therapies. In this review, we discuss the advantages and limitations of animal models available for basic and preclinical studies. The fruit fly model is suitable mainly for basic research on cellular migration, invasiveness, adhesion, and the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Higher-animal models allow to recapitulate the architecture and microenvironment of the tumor. We discuss a syngeneic mice model and the patient derived xenograft model (PDX), both useful for preclinical studies. Conditional knock-in and knock-out methodology allows to manipulate selected genes at a given time and in a certain tissue. Such models have built our knowledge about tumor-initiating genetic events and cell-of-origin of ovarian cancers; it has been shown that high-grade serous ovarian cancer may be initiated in both the ovarian surface and tubal epithelium. It is postulated that clawed frog models could be developed, enabling studies on tumor immunity and anticancer immune response. In laying hen, ovarian cancer develops spontaneously, which provides the opportunity to study the genetic, biochemical, and environmental risk factors, as well as tumor initiation, progression, and histological origin; this model can also be used for drug testing. The chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane is another attractive model and allows the study of drug response.

Fibronectin and Periostin as Prognostic Markers in Ovarian Cancer

“…Ovarian cancer is a highly heterogeneous disease, and this phenomenon is probably due to the distinct cellular origin of its individual histological types. Recent findings suggest that clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancers originate from endometriosis, while serous ovarian cancers may originate either from the ovarian surface or fallopian tube epithelium [1][2][3]. The heterogeneity of ovarian cancer is also legible at the molecular level.…”

Preclinical and Clinical Immunotherapeutic Strategies in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer

“…Mouse models have permitted considerable advances in the understanding of EOC biology and the development of therapeutic strategies, including immunotherapy. They have been shown to recapitulate the anatomical features of various human EOC subtypes, mimicking tumor growth, metastatic spread and the tumor immune microenvironment, and recapitulating patient responses to therapies [ 131 ]. Important characteristics, relevant to most human EOC subtypes, have been taken into account in the design of EOC mouse models.…”

Experimental modeling of ovarian carcinoma

“…В доклинических исследованиях с использованием ксенотрансплантатов линии OVCAR3 была продемонстрирована противоопухолевая активность ряда агентов, например, анти-VEGF препаратов (VEGF -сосудистый эндотелиальный фактор роста) в монорежиме или комбинации с химиотерапией (паклитаксел). В дальнейшем эти результаты нашли подтверждение в рамках клинических исследований [22]. В проведенном S. Domcke и соавт.…”