Biological Basis for Chemoprevention of Ovarian Cancer
Abstract
Prevention may represent a feasible approach to decreasing ovarian cancer mortality. To achieve a better understanding of the etiology of ovarian cancer, which can then be translated into more effective prevention strategies, we have initiated a molecular epidemiologic study in North Carolina that considers genetic susceptibility, reproductive/hormonal and other exposures and acquired genetic alterations. This case-control study is population-based with subjects recruited from 48 counties of central North Carolina. Subjects are interviewed in their homes, and about 350 cases and 400 controls have been accrued thus far. Blood and cancer samples have been collected and molecular analyses of p53, HER-2/neu, c-myc and genetic polymorphisms (eg. progesterone receptor) have commenced. We also have initiated an ovarian cancer chemoprevention program focusing on the progesterone receptor. Progestins have a potent apoptotic effect on ovarian epithelial cells and we have shown that levonorgestrel dramatically decreases ovarian cancer incidence in a chicken chemoprevention trial. In addition, we have shown that progestin mediated apoptosis in the ovarian epithelium is mediated by transforming growth factor-beta. We will continue to work towards an understanding of the molecular epidemiology of ovarian cancer and towards development of effective chemoprevention strategies that might decrease mortality from this disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA398233
Entities
People
- Andrew Berchuck
Organizations
- Duke University Hospital