RARE DISEASE
Adenocarcinoma of ovary
Adenocarcinoma of ovary
Adenocarcinoma of ovary
Synonyms: Ovarian adenocarcinoma
Synonyms: Ovarian adenocarcinoma
Synonyms: Ovarian adenocarcinoma
Drug discovery
1
drug
With orphan designation
Overview
Ovarian adenocarcinoma, the most common epithelial ovarian cancer, arises from Müllerian epithelium and includes high-grade serous (most prevalent), endometrioid, clear cell, and mucinous subtypes [1][5]. Typically diagnosed at advanced stages (III/IV) due to nonspecific symptoms, it demonstrates varying chemosensitivity – clear cell and mucinous subtypes show particular resistance to platinum-based regimens [1][4][7]. Prognosis remains poor with 46% 5-year survival overall, dropping below 30% in advanced disease [4][10].
Categories: rare gynecological and obstetric diseases, rare neoplastic diseases
Research Papers
2,472 drug discovery papers about Adenocarcinoma of ovary, with 2 first-in-class and 8 next-in-class emerging drug candidates forecasted to outperform the average preclinical success rate. Recent publications:
2,472 drug discovery papers about Adenocarcinoma of ovary, with 2 first-in-class and 8 next-in-class emerging drug candidates forecasted to outperform the average preclinical success rate. Recent publications:
2026-08-17 | Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Alkoxyamine Anticancer Prodrugs Bearing Galactoside as an Enzyme-Activated Trigger.
Enzyme-induced cytotoxicity can be considered the main challenge in modern cancer therapy that provides unique opportunities for targeted apoptosis. To address this challenge, we implemented enzyme-triggered activation of alkoxyamine-galactose conjugates with the formation of active carbon-centered radical species for the apoptosis of cancer cells. The comparative analysis of two alkoxyamine derivatives, bearing stable and self-immolative linkers between the radical precursor and galactose moiety, revealed the crucial role of molecular structure in anticancer activity. The study of cytotoxicity and induced oxidative stress of free amine and two galactosides revealed the enzyme-dependent nature of the activity of alkoxyamines having a self-immolative linker against distinct cancer cell lines such as PC-3 (prostate adenocarcinoma), SKOV-3 (ovarian adenocarcinoma), MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), A-431 (epidermoid carcinoma), and Jurkat cells (human T-lymphoblastic leukemia). The collected data prove the applicability of enzyme-triggered glycosylated alkoxyamines as a new family of targeted prodrugs against cancer.
2026-07-21 | Abstract A005: VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond
Abstract FOLR1 and MSLN are GPI-anchored proteins involved in cancer pathogenesis. The therapeutic potential of targeting FOLR1 is demonstrated by the approval of Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx; IMGN853). However, Elahere selects patients with FOLR1 high expression (TPS≥75), and poses safety concern of severe ocular toxicities. Recently, RC88 showed preliminary efficacy in patients with IHC 2+ or higher MSLN expression, highlighting MSLN as a potential therapeutic target. Despite this, unmet needs remain for patients with low FOLR1 or MSLN expression. Notably, FOLR1 and MSLN are highly co-expressed in solid tumors like ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and so on, but limited in normal tissues, offering an opportunity for tumor-specific targeting and supporting bispecific designs. VBC106 is a tri-specific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting both FOLR1 and MSLN. It delivers a TOPOi payload with a strong bystander effect, maximizing efficacy while minimizing safety concerns. VBC106 distinguishes itself from other drugs targeting FOLR1 and/or MSLN with the following features: Optimized Structure: VBC106 has a high-avidity bi-paratopic FOLR1 arm and a high-affinity MSLN arm, the structure was optimized to enhance synergistic binding and achieve maximum internalization. High in-vitro Potency: VBC106 demonstrates stronger cytotoxicity and a more potent bystander effect than Elahere analogues and PRO1184. Superior in-vivo Efficacy in CDX: In over 10 CDX models of various cancer types, VBC106 showed superior efficacy compared to Elahere analogues and PRO1184. And it is effective in FOLR1 low-expression models where others are not. High Response Rate in PDX: VBC106 shows a high response rate in PDX models across multiple cancer types. Good Pharmacokinetics: In NHP, VBC106 has a half-life of about 4 days. Large Therapeutic Window: GLP toxicity studies in cynomolgus monkeys indicate good tolerability at repeated doses. The HNSTD is 40 mg/kg. In summary, VBC106, with its unique tri-specific design and differentiated features, has superior efficacy and high safety, making it a promising first-in-class ADC candidate for clinical development, with a U.S. IND submission planned for Q2 2026. Citation Format: Man Xu, Xuekun Zhang, Wei Wang, Kevin Yin, Yajun Huang, Yanling Gong, Yingchun Wang, Jing Li. VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond [abstract]. In: Proceedings of AACR Drug Discovery and Development (AACR D3) Conference; 2026 Jul 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(14_Suppl):Abstract nr A005.
2026-07-21 | Abstract PR008: VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond
Abstract FOLR1 and MSLN are GPI-anchored proteins involved in cancer pathogenesis. The therapeutic potential of targeting FOLR1 is demonstrated by the approval of Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx; IMGN853). However, Elahere selects patients with FOLR1 high expression (TPS≥75), and poses safety concern of severe ocular toxicities. Recently, RC88 showed preliminary efficacy in patients with IHC 2+ or higher MSLN expression, highlighting MSLN as a potential therapeutic target. Despite this, unmet needs remain for patients with low FOLR1 or MSLN expression. Notably, FOLR1 and MSLN are highly co-expressed in solid tumors like ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and so on, but limited in normal tissues, offering an opportunity for tumor-specific targeting and supporting bispecific designs. VBC106 is a tri-specific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting both FOLR1 and MSLN. It delivers a TOPOi payload with a strong bystander effect, maximizing efficacy while minimizing safety concerns. VBC106 distinguishes itself from other drugs targeting FOLR1 and/or MSLN with the following features: Optimized Structure: VBC106 has a high-avidity bi-paratopic FOLR1 arm and a high-affinity MSLN arm, the structure was optimized to enhance synergistic binding and achieve maximum internalization. High in-vitro Potency: VBC106 demonstrates stronger cytotoxicity and a more potent bystander effect than Elahere analogues and PRO1184. Superior in-vivo Efficacy in CDX: In over 10 CDX models of various cancer types, VBC106 showed superior efficacy compared to Elahere analogues and PRO1184. And it is effective in FOLR1 low-expression models where others are not. High Response Rate in PDX: VBC106 shows a high response rate in PDX models across multiple cancer types. Good Pharmacokinetics: In NHP, VBC106 has a half-life of about 4 days. Large Therapeutic Window: GLP toxicity studies in cynomolgus monkeys indicate good tolerability at repeated doses. The HNSTD is 40 mg/kg. In summary, VBC106, with its unique tri-specific design and differentiated features, has superior efficacy and high safety, making it a promising first-in-class ADC candidate for clinical development, with a U.S. IND submission planned for Q2 2026. Citation Format: Man Xu, Xuekun Zhang, Wei Wang, Kevin Yin, Yajun Huang, Yanling Gong, Yingchun Wang, Jing Li. VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond [abstract]. In: Proceedings of AACR Drug Discovery and Development (AACR D3) Conference; 2026 Jul 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(14_Suppl):Abstract nr PR008.
2026-07-16 | Anticancer potential of β-isopropylfuran-1,2-naphthoquinone in different types of tumor cell lines.
Cancer is a multifactorial disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and remains a major global health challenge. Given the limitations of conventional therapies, naturally derived compounds such as naphthoquinones have attracted interest for their antitumor potential. This study evaluated the in vitro effects of β-isopropylfuran-1,2-naphthoquinone (NAF-Q69), a synthetic isolapachol derivative, on different cell lines (MRC-5 - human lung fibroblasts; HEPG2 - hepatocellular carcinoma; HeLa - cervical cancer; TOV - ovarian adenocarcinoma; MDA-MB - breast adenocarcinoma; and J82 - urothelial carcinoma) to assess its cytotoxic activity and cellular characteristics (clonogenic survival, migration, morphology, cell cycle, and reactive oxygen species \[ROS] production). NAF-Q69 showed significant dose-dependent cytotoxicity in all tumor lines, with IC50 values ranging from 10.29 µM (MDA-MB) to 18.65 µM (HEPG2). It decreased viability, inhibited colony formation, and impaired migration, particularly in TOV, HeLa, and HEPG2 cells. Morphological alterations were evident. The compound induced cell death, with increased sub-G1 populations, and promoted G2/M arrest. Moreover, NAF-Q69 markedly elevated ROS levels, implicating oxidative stress as a central mechanism. In conclusion, NAF-Q69 exhibits promising antitumor activity by inhibiting proliferation and migration, inducing cell death, and enhancing oxidative stress, supporting the potential of naphthoquinones in cancer therapy.
2026-07-01 | Complete Remission of Erythrodermic Psoriasis After Bevacizumab Administration for Ovarian Serous Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
ABSTRACT Patients who have both erythrodermic psoriasis and advanced ovarian cancer are uncommon in clinical practice. This case study presents the case of a patient diagnosed with erythrodermic psoriasis for a duration exceeding 4 years. The patient was administered ixekizumab and adalimumab, but no remission was observed during the illness. The patient was diagnosed with metastatic ovarian serous adenocarcinoma involving multiple lymph nodes and liver in 2022. During her bevacizumab treatment, she experienced a complete remission of psoriasis without any other management for psoriasis.
2026-08-17 | Design, Synthesis, and Evaluation of Alkoxyamine Anticancer Prodrugs Bearing Galactoside as an Enzyme-Activated Trigger.
Enzyme-induced cytotoxicity can be considered the main challenge in modern cancer therapy that provides unique opportunities for targeted apoptosis. To address this challenge, we implemented enzyme-triggered activation of alkoxyamine-galactose conjugates with the formation of active carbon-centered radical species for the apoptosis of cancer cells. The comparative analysis of two alkoxyamine derivatives, bearing stable and self-immolative linkers between the radical precursor and galactose moiety, revealed the crucial role of molecular structure in anticancer activity. The study of cytotoxicity and induced oxidative stress of free amine and two galactosides revealed the enzyme-dependent nature of the activity of alkoxyamines having a self-immolative linker against distinct cancer cell lines such as PC-3 (prostate adenocarcinoma), SKOV-3 (ovarian adenocarcinoma), MCF-7 (breast adenocarcinoma), A-431 (epidermoid carcinoma), and Jurkat cells (human T-lymphoblastic leukemia). The collected data prove the applicability of enzyme-triggered glycosylated alkoxyamines as a new family of targeted prodrugs against cancer.
2026-07-21 | Abstract A005: VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond
Abstract FOLR1 and MSLN are GPI-anchored proteins involved in cancer pathogenesis. The therapeutic potential of targeting FOLR1 is demonstrated by the approval of Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx; IMGN853). However, Elahere selects patients with FOLR1 high expression (TPS≥75), and poses safety concern of severe ocular toxicities. Recently, RC88 showed preliminary efficacy in patients with IHC 2+ or higher MSLN expression, highlighting MSLN as a potential therapeutic target. Despite this, unmet needs remain for patients with low FOLR1 or MSLN expression. Notably, FOLR1 and MSLN are highly co-expressed in solid tumors like ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and so on, but limited in normal tissues, offering an opportunity for tumor-specific targeting and supporting bispecific designs. VBC106 is a tri-specific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting both FOLR1 and MSLN. It delivers a TOPOi payload with a strong bystander effect, maximizing efficacy while minimizing safety concerns. VBC106 distinguishes itself from other drugs targeting FOLR1 and/or MSLN with the following features: Optimized Structure: VBC106 has a high-avidity bi-paratopic FOLR1 arm and a high-affinity MSLN arm, the structure was optimized to enhance synergistic binding and achieve maximum internalization. High in-vitro Potency: VBC106 demonstrates stronger cytotoxicity and a more potent bystander effect than Elahere analogues and PRO1184. Superior in-vivo Efficacy in CDX: In over 10 CDX models of various cancer types, VBC106 showed superior efficacy compared to Elahere analogues and PRO1184. And it is effective in FOLR1 low-expression models where others are not. High Response Rate in PDX: VBC106 shows a high response rate in PDX models across multiple cancer types. Good Pharmacokinetics: In NHP, VBC106 has a half-life of about 4 days. Large Therapeutic Window: GLP toxicity studies in cynomolgus monkeys indicate good tolerability at repeated doses. The HNSTD is 40 mg/kg. In summary, VBC106, with its unique tri-specific design and differentiated features, has superior efficacy and high safety, making it a promising first-in-class ADC candidate for clinical development, with a U.S. IND submission planned for Q2 2026. Citation Format: Man Xu, Xuekun Zhang, Wei Wang, Kevin Yin, Yajun Huang, Yanling Gong, Yingchun Wang, Jing Li. VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond [abstract]. In: Proceedings of AACR Drug Discovery and Development (AACR D3) Conference; 2026 Jul 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(14_Suppl):Abstract nr A005.
2026-07-21 | Abstract PR008: VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond
Abstract FOLR1 and MSLN are GPI-anchored proteins involved in cancer pathogenesis. The therapeutic potential of targeting FOLR1 is demonstrated by the approval of Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx; IMGN853). However, Elahere selects patients with FOLR1 high expression (TPS≥75), and poses safety concern of severe ocular toxicities. Recently, RC88 showed preliminary efficacy in patients with IHC 2+ or higher MSLN expression, highlighting MSLN as a potential therapeutic target. Despite this, unmet needs remain for patients with low FOLR1 or MSLN expression. Notably, FOLR1 and MSLN are highly co-expressed in solid tumors like ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer, lung adenocarcinoma and so on, but limited in normal tissues, offering an opportunity for tumor-specific targeting and supporting bispecific designs. VBC106 is a tri-specific antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeting both FOLR1 and MSLN. It delivers a TOPOi payload with a strong bystander effect, maximizing efficacy while minimizing safety concerns. VBC106 distinguishes itself from other drugs targeting FOLR1 and/or MSLN with the following features: Optimized Structure: VBC106 has a high-avidity bi-paratopic FOLR1 arm and a high-affinity MSLN arm, the structure was optimized to enhance synergistic binding and achieve maximum internalization. High in-vitro Potency: VBC106 demonstrates stronger cytotoxicity and a more potent bystander effect than Elahere analogues and PRO1184. Superior in-vivo Efficacy in CDX: In over 10 CDX models of various cancer types, VBC106 showed superior efficacy compared to Elahere analogues and PRO1184. And it is effective in FOLR1 low-expression models where others are not. High Response Rate in PDX: VBC106 shows a high response rate in PDX models across multiple cancer types. Good Pharmacokinetics: In NHP, VBC106 has a half-life of about 4 days. Large Therapeutic Window: GLP toxicity studies in cynomolgus monkeys indicate good tolerability at repeated doses. The HNSTD is 40 mg/kg. In summary, VBC106, with its unique tri-specific design and differentiated features, has superior efficacy and high safety, making it a promising first-in-class ADC candidate for clinical development, with a U.S. IND submission planned for Q2 2026. Citation Format: Man Xu, Xuekun Zhang, Wei Wang, Kevin Yin, Yajun Huang, Yanling Gong, Yingchun Wang, Jing Li. VBC106: A First-in-class FOLR1/MSLN Targeted Tri-specific Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Ovarian Cancer, Endometrial Cancer, Lung Adenocarcinoma and Beyond [abstract]. In: Proceedings of AACR Drug Discovery and Development (AACR D3) Conference; 2026 Jul 21-24; Boston, MA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Clin Cancer Res 2026;32(14_Suppl):Abstract nr PR008.
2026-07-16 | Anticancer potential of β-isopropylfuran-1,2-naphthoquinone in different types of tumor cell lines.
Cancer is a multifactorial disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth and remains a major global health challenge. Given the limitations of conventional therapies, naturally derived compounds such as naphthoquinones have attracted interest for their antitumor potential. This study evaluated the in vitro effects of β-isopropylfuran-1,2-naphthoquinone (NAF-Q69), a synthetic isolapachol derivative, on different cell lines (MRC-5 - human lung fibroblasts; HEPG2 - hepatocellular carcinoma; HeLa - cervical cancer; TOV - ovarian adenocarcinoma; MDA-MB - breast adenocarcinoma; and J82 - urothelial carcinoma) to assess its cytotoxic activity and cellular characteristics (clonogenic survival, migration, morphology, cell cycle, and reactive oxygen species \[ROS] production). NAF-Q69 showed significant dose-dependent cytotoxicity in all tumor lines, with IC50 values ranging from 10.29 µM (MDA-MB) to 18.65 µM (HEPG2). It decreased viability, inhibited colony formation, and impaired migration, particularly in TOV, HeLa, and HEPG2 cells. Morphological alterations were evident. The compound induced cell death, with increased sub-G1 populations, and promoted G2/M arrest. Moreover, NAF-Q69 markedly elevated ROS levels, implicating oxidative stress as a central mechanism. In conclusion, NAF-Q69 exhibits promising antitumor activity by inhibiting proliferation and migration, inducing cell death, and enhancing oxidative stress, supporting the potential of naphthoquinones in cancer therapy.
2026-07-01 | Complete Remission of Erythrodermic Psoriasis After Bevacizumab Administration for Ovarian Serous Adenocarcinoma: A Case Report
ABSTRACT Patients who have both erythrodermic psoriasis and advanced ovarian cancer are uncommon in clinical practice. This case study presents the case of a patient diagnosed with erythrodermic psoriasis for a duration exceeding 4 years. The patient was administered ixekizumab and adalimumab, but no remission was observed during the illness. The patient was diagnosed with metastatic ovarian serous adenocarcinoma involving multiple lymph nodes and liver in 2022. During her bevacizumab treatment, she experienced a complete remission of psoriasis without any other management for psoriasis.
Access all drug discovery papers and probability of success in trials forecasts:
Access all drug discovery papers and probability of success in trials forecasts:
Drug Discovery Landscape
1 orphan drug designation for Adenocarcinoma of ovary, including 1 approved therapy.
1 orphan drug designation for Adenocarcinoma of ovary, including 1 approved therapy.
Drug | Therapy type | Regulator | Orphan designation | Approval | Sponsor |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Altretamine [Hexalen] | small molecules | FDA | 1984-02-09 | 1990-12-26 | Medimmune Oncology, Inc. |
Let's accelerate rare disease drug discovery
Let's accelerate drug discovery
Get access to Explority AI's forecasts to outperform average preclinical success rates. Whether you're expanding your R&D pipeline, evaluating a partnership, or simply have a question — we'd love to hear from you.