Discovery and targeted mass spectrometry-based proteomics of ovarian cancer

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

INTRODUCTION: Ovarian cancer is the most lethal gynecologic malignancy and has seen little progress in early detection and treatment. Mass spectrometry-based proteomics is a powerful technique that can be used to understand tumor biology and identify novel biomarkers that could transform diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment. AREAS COVERED: This review highlights recent applications of proteomics in ovarian cancer research. Tissue studies have defined histotype-specific pathways and spatial proteomics focuses on intratumoral heterogeneity. Biofluid studies are growing with exciting potential for minimally invasive diagnostics. Post-translational modification profiling has explored signaling alterations and mechanisms of resistance. Proteogenomic integration has improved tumor classification, revealing protein-level alterations and regulatory mechanisms not captured by genomics. Literature was drawn mostly from studies of the past five years, with emphasis on translational applications. EXPERT OPINION: Proteomics has developed into a tool capable of providing clinically relevant, valuable insight. However, translation will depend on validation and standardization. Continued integration with other omics is critical for moving discoveries from the laboratory to the clinic. Importantly, there is an unmet need for proteomic analysis of less common subtypes, as seen by the bias of this review toward HGSOC.