Two patient-driven ovarian cancer nonprofits – STAAR Low-Grade Serous Ovarian Cancer Foundation and Not These Ovaries – have awarded a $115,580 research grant to Dr. Kwong-Kwok Wong at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center to investigate new biomarkers that could improve treatment options for patients with low-grade serous ovarian cancer (LGSOC).

The research study will utilize long-read RNA sequencing, a cutting-edge technology that allows scientists to examine full-length RNA transcripts in greater detail than previously possible. This technique could identify novel gene fusions and biomarkers that indicate whether a patient will respond to chemotherapy or endocrine therapy – an urgent need in LGSOC, where traditional treatments often show limited effectiveness.

“This pilot project is exploring a promising technology to perform more accurate measurements of transcript activities and discover new genetic markers in low-grade serous ovarian cancer,” said Dr. Wong, principal investigator at MD Anderson. “As the accuracy of long-read sequencing improves, we are optimistic about the potential in clinical applications for patients who need better options.”

Currently, only 20% of LGSOC patients respond to platinum-based chemotherapy, the standard of care for other ovarian cancer types. Patients typically undergo surgery followed by chemotherapy and treatment with aromatase inhibitors, which block estrogen production. However, outcomes remain limited due to the unique biology of LGSOC and the lack of personalized therapies.

The study will analyze RNA samples from patients who have and have not responded to chemotherapy or hormone therapy, with the goal of uncovering molecular patterns that could guide treatment decisions and lead to more tailored, effective care.

“This research directly addresses the gap in options for patients with this rare and underfunded cancer,” said Emily Campbell, Executive Director of Not These Ovaries. “We are proud to invest in innovative science that puts patients at the center of progress.”

“STAAR was founded by LGSOC survivors to drive critical research for a disease that has been overlooked for too long,” said Nicole Andrews, Chair of STAAR. “We’re excited to partner with Not These Ovaries and MD Anderson to accelerate discoveries that could change lives.”

Source – Newswire