A study of extracellular matrix dynamics in epithelial cancer progression with a special focus on ovarian cancer spheroidogenesis

Abstract

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is one of the most debilitating gynecological cancers in women worldwide due to its insidious symptoms. The predominant subtype of ovarian cancer: high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), is responsible for 75% of all fatalities associated with EOC. 90% of EOC patients have already reached an advanced stage of metastasis when they are diagnosed with the disease. Metastasis is frequently associated with ascites: an abnormal accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity due to the occurrence of spheroids, clusters of disseminated malignant EOC cells. Spheroids contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality associated with EOC. Despite this, the mechanisms associated with the formation of EOC spheroids are ill-understood. Investigations indicate intricate connections between these signaling modules with elements of reciprocal and hierarchical connections that underlie spheroidal morphogenesis and may provide insights into the identification of targets for future therapeutic strategies for EOC.