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News from The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund
Research News:
Summer 2006
OCRF’s 2005 Ovarian Cancer Research Training
Program of Excellence (POE) Award Recipients
Now entering its fourth year, OCRF’s highly competitive POE program provides $75,000 of funding
for up to two years for either a Gynecology/Medical Oncology Fellow or a Ph.D. currently in their
post-doctoral training at a cancer center of excellence. The grant recipients will be working under
the supervision of a mentor who is a recognized leader in the field of ovarian cancer research and
will be involved in either laboratory, clinical, or epidemiology research. OCRF believes that these
awards will advance the overall scientific objectives of the cancer center, and encourage the
recipient’s research career in the field of ovarian cancer.
Joseph Kwong, Ph.D., of Brigham and Women’s
Hospital/ Harvard Medical School.
Please join us in congratulating our eight (8) newest POE grant recipients and read, in their own
words, about their research endeavors.
RESEARCH NEWS continued on page 3
FUNDRAISING NEWS
See inside
for more...
Making a difference one event at a time.
Inside...
Letter from the
Co-Executive
Directors.............................2
Research News
Continued ........................3-4
Fundraising News
Past Events.......................5- 7
Upcoming Events ..............7-8
Liz Tilberis Scholars
Program ........................9- 10
Ways to
Give Back.........................11
Marcia Cross with Eva
Longoria at As Seen
In…Harper’s Bazaar
in Los Angeles..
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
Rosie O'Donnell and
Joy Behar at Stand Up
for Madeline and OCRF.
OCRF Receives Charity Navigator’s Highest
4-Star Rating for Sound Fiscal Management
OCRF is pleased to announce that it has earned a 4-star rating from Charity
Navigator for its ability to efficiently allocate and grow its finances. Charity Navigator
is America’s premier and largest evaluator of charities. Less than 25% of the charities
rated by Charity Navigator receive 4-stars. OCRF is honored to be recognized for its
fiscal responsibility. For more information, please visit www.charitynavigator.org
Know the
Symptoms .........................12
(212) 268-1002 • (800) 873-9569 • www.ocrf.org
14 Pennsylvania Plaza
Suite 1400
New York, NY 10122
212.268.1002
800.873.9569
212.947.5652 fax
www.ocrf.org
Mission &
History of
Founded in Memory of
Ann Schreiber
OCRF
With Special Tribute to
Liz Tilberis
(President, 1997-1999)
Board of Directors
Executive Board
Faith Kates Kogan
President
Sol Schreiber, Esq.
Founder & Co-Chair
Carmel J. Cohen, M.D.
Co-Chair
Peter R. Dottino, M.D.
Vice President
Edward Labaton, Esq.
Secretary
Donna B. Nadler
Treasurer
Andrew Tilberis
Linda Yarden
Susan D. Bazaar
Susan Bershad, M.D.
Jacqueline Bianco
Anthony Broy
Joseph J. Campinell
Jeannette Chang
Nancy Davis
Andrew Feuerstein
Susie Fragnoli
Michelle Gerson
Maria Gordian, M.D.
Mindy Gray
Carol J. Hamilton
John W. Hansbury, Esq.
Cindy Harrell Horn
June Jacobs
Sherry Jacobson
Thomas C. Liebman
Dana L. Mark
Ylain Mayer
Christine E. McLaughlin
Mark D. Myslinski
Mara Burros Sandler
Lyris A. Schonholz, M.D.
Judith Schwartz, M.D.
Patti Webster
Robin Zarel
Laura D. Zemmel
not - for - profit organization that was founded in
December 1994 to honor the memory of Ann Schreiber,
a distinguished public administrator who lost a
courageous five - year battle with ovarian cancer.
OCRF is devoted to the formulation of early diagnostic treatment programs and research towards the
ultimate conquest of ovarian cancer. As OCRF strives to find an early diagnostic tool and a cure, it
also seeks to support patients and their loved ones in understanding this disease and its treatment as
well as to provide outreach programs and raise public awareness.
Letter from the Co-Executive Directors
It is our great pleasure to bring you
OCRF’s 2006 Summer Newsletter. In
this edition of HOPE, we proudly
showcase our latest group of funded
investigators in the Liz Tilberis
Scholars Program and the Ovarian
Cancer Research Training Program of
Excellence. These recent grants bring
the number of OCRF-funded researchers to 89 scientists at 41
Jamie Boris (left), Carol Hamilton, President of L’Oréal Paris, Milla Jovovich,
institutions across the country. Since
Louisa Terry, Eva Longoria, and Glenda Bailey, Editor- In - Chief of Harpers
1998, OCRF’s research grants have
Bazaar at the Lindbrook Gallery in Los Angeles.
proven immensely fruitful in bringing
forth new discoveries and in fostering career development. We believe that our latest grant recipients hold great
promise and welcome them as they join an esteemed group of scientists who have been supported by our
organization.
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
Members of the Board
The Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, Inc. (OCRF) is a
On pages 5 - 8, you will read about our past fundraising accomplishments and upcoming events. All of our events,
large and small, help to raise the consciousness about ovarian cancer as well as the dire need for more research.
We are blessed that we’ve been able to partner with so many dedicated individuals and organizations across the
country. It is this kind of teamwork that has allowed us to reach a national audience and to raise funds for muchneeded research.
On behalf of all of us at OCRF, we thank you for your dedication and commitment to our cause. We look forward
to your continued support because only together can we conquer ovarian cancer. Enjoy your summer and be sure
to check our website (www.ocrf.org) for upcoming special events and research updates.
Jamie L. Boris
Co-Executive Director
Louisa D. Terry
Co-Executive Director
OCRF Staff
Tracy E. Enright
Julie Hazelip
Craig Rosati
Kira E. Siebert
Louisa Terry
Co - Executive Director
Jamie Boris
Co - Executive Director
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RESEARCH NEWS continued from cover page
test for early detection of disease. An effective screening test to detect
ovarian cancer in its early stages has yet to be developed, but remains a
critical goal in order to improve patient survival.
PROGRAM OF EXCELLENCE
award recipients
Methylation, a modification of genomic DNA by addition of a small
molecule, is required for normal development and plays an important role
in controlling how genes are turned “on” or “off”. Methylation of DNA is
often associated with turning off a gene and is frequently found in cancers
at genes whose normal function is to control tumor growth. Methylation of
genes in ovarian cancer, however is under explored. Our research will
help determine the methylation status of several different genes in the
blood samples of ovarian cancer patients. We are hopeful that the
methylation profiles that we discover can serve as markers of early
detection of ovarian cancer. We hope to develop a simple and relatively
non-invasive method to rapidly screen blood samples for the presence of
ovarian cancer. In addition, cancer recurrence may also be associated
with a distinct methylation profile, which could be used to predict whether
cancer may recur or perhaps supply us with specific targets for
appropriate treatment. Furthermore, having a marker for such an
aggressive disease may also be a valuable tool for developing more
effective ovarian cancer treatment.
Donna Badgewell, Ph.D.
M.D. Anderson Cancer Center
Protein Biomarkers for the Early Detection
of Ovarian Cancer
When ovarian cancer is diagnosed in stage I, more than 90% of patients
can be cured with conventional surgery and chemotherapy. Despite
improvements in cytoreductive surgery and combination chemotherapy,
advanced-stage epithelial ovarian cancer has a poor prognosis; fewer
than 30% of patients survive long term. Early detection of ovarian cancer
in a larger screening of patients could significantly improve the overall
survival rate. To date, the most promising screening strategy for ovarian
cancer appears to be a two-stage process in which an elevated or rising
CA125 level in the serum test triggers ultrasonography and an abnormal
sonogram prompts surgery. However, CA125 is not an optimal first step
in a two-stage strategy. CA125 is not elevated in the sera of
approximately 50% of patients with early-stage ovarian cancer.
Joseph Kwong, Ph.D.
Brigham and Women’s Hospital / Harvard
Medical School
Use of a panel of markers, including three protein markers recently
identified in Dr. Robert Bast’s laboratory at M. D. Anderson Cancer
Center, in collaboration with Drs. Zhen Zhang and Dan Chan at Johns
Hopkins, may provide greater sensitivity for early-stage disease, provided
that a high level of specificity can be maintained. These three markers
could be added to a larger panel to improve sensitivity of an initial step
in an ovarian cancer screen. Our goal is to develop a test for early
detection of ovarian cancer by identifying proteins in the blood or urine
that change in concentration when cancer is present. This test could be
used to test women annually for ovarian cancer and could significantly
improve the survival rate of women diagnosed with this disease by
allowing us to detect ovarian cancer earlier.
Inflammation, E74 - like factor 3 (ELF3) and
Ovarian Epithelial Cell Transformation
Although studies have been focused on relating the risk of ovarian
carcinogenesis with incessant ovulation and levels of pituitary
gonadotropin for many years, the etiology of ovarian cancer is still largely
unknown. In recent years a growing body of epidemiologic evidence
suggests that factors causing epithelial inflammation may lead to ovarian
carcinogenesis. However, there has been no experimental study proving
the correlation between these factors and ovarian carcinogenesis. One of
the main hindrances may be due to the lack of models that could be
applicable to test such hypotheses. Recently, we have successfully
established a three-dimensional normal human ovarian surface epithelial
(HOSE) spheroid model mimicking the ovarian epithelial inclusion cysts,
which provides us with a useful model to perform functional studies on the
ovarian epithelial cells in vitro. It will also enable us to examine the effect
of ovarian epithelial cells that are exposed to the inflammation-related
factors. We also found that tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF - α), a potent
pro-inflammatory cytokine, may be related to ovarian carcinogenesis as it
confers a tumor-like phenotype in normal HOSE spheroids.
Amy French, M.D.
Duke University
Serum Methylation Markers as a Tool for
Disease Prognosis and for Early Detection
of Ovarian Cancer
Epithelial ovarian cancer remains the leading cause of gynecologic
cancer deaths in the United States, with cure rates changing minimally
over time. Poor prognosis is partially due to the fact that 75% of women
are diagnosed with advanced disease. The majority of early stage
ovarian cancers are asymptomatic, and although physical exam,
ultrasound and CA-125 serum antibody tests are available to help with
diagnosis, they are not sensitive or specific enough to use as a screening
The proposed studies will be aimed at understanding the mechanisms
underlying the TNF - α induced tumor-like phenotype in the ovarian
epithelial cells. According to our microarray analysis, the transcription
factor ELF3 was over-expressed in a majority of ovarian tumor tissues,
which suggests a role of ELF3 in ovarian carcinogenesis. Based on the
roles of ELF3 in inflammatory responses and its possible roles in inducing
POE AWARD RECIPIENTS continued on next page
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that this ovarian growth factor is actually what makes these tumors resistant
to Herceptin. In my studies, I propose that therapeutic inhibition of
heregulin may reverse ovarian tumor resistance to Herceptin. If the results
we obtain through this award confirm our prediction, we intend to move
this novel therapeutic combination into preclinical studies, and ultimately
into clinical trials, so that ovarian cancer patients will receive the potential
benefit of this novel therapeutic as soon as possible.
POE AWARD RECIPIENTS continued from previous page
epithelial cell transformation, we are highly interested in whether ELF3
plays a role in ovarian cancer and to investigate the possibility of TNF - α
involvement. The understanding of the oncogenic role of ELF3 in ovarian
cancer development will certainly provide a new insight into markers for
early detection of the disease, ultimately benefiting the strategies for
treatment and chemoprevention of ovarian cancer.
Deyin Xing, M.D., Ph.D.
Ritu Salani, M.D.
Massachusetts General Hospital
Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions
A Mouse Model for BRCA1 - Associated Ovarian
Cancer
Development of a Hypersensitive DNA Integrity
Assay to Detect Ovarian Cancer
Approximately 10% of epithelial ovarian cancers are hereditary. Most
hereditary ovarian cancers can be attributed to germline mutations in the
breast/ovarian cancer susceptibility gene, BRCA1. Sporadic and
hereditary ovarian cancers are similar in many respects, however, patients
with hereditary cancers develop the disease earlier and display a longer
recurrence-free interval following chemotherapy. Most BRCA1 - associated
ovarian cancers are of the serous subtype and have a disrupted p53
pathway. Little is known about the mechanisms that underlie BRCA1associated ovarian tumorigenesis, mainly due to the lack of an
appropriate experimental model system. Considering the distinct clinical
and histopathological aspects of BRCA1 - associated ovarian cancers,
there is great need to develop mouse models for ovarian cancers that will
elucidate the cooperation among BRCA1, p53 and other putative tumor
suppressor genes and oncogenes.
The lack of an effective screening tool for ovarian cancer patients
continues to result in a high mortality from the disease. This proposal is
designed to develop and assess a new technology, the hypersensitive
DNA Integrity Assay (DIA), to detect ovarian cancer by evaluating the
DNA strand integrity (longer DNA fragments) in cell-free ascites and
plasma. We hypothesize that the increased DNA strand integrity (longer
DNA fragments) is a unique tumor-associated marker in bodily fluids. The
reason to select DNA strand integrity as a biomarker is because the
presence of a longer strand is commonly associated with a solid tumor
even at early clinical stages, thus minimizing the need to employ a host of
multiple biomarkers and different techniques for cancer detection.
By analyzing the lengths of DNA fragments, it may be possible to
distinguish patients with ovarian cancer from patients with benign disease,
which may lead to a diagnostic blood test.
We have engineered mouse ovarian cancer cell lines that are either wild
type or deficient for BRCA1. Our first aim is to identify genes that
contribute to BRCA1 - associated ovarian tumorigenesis. Consistent with
the finding that the loss of p53 function and the amplification of myc often
accompany the BRCA1 mutation in hereditary breast tumors, we were
able to transform mouse ovarian epithelial cells using a combination of
genetic alterations in BRCA1, p53 and myc. Using the same approach,
we will test other candidate genes that are known to be upregulated in
hereditary tumors for their ability to collaborate with a BRCA1 deficiency
in inducing tumorigenesis. A global expression profiling comparison
between wild type and BRCA1- deficient cell lines will be used to identify
novel pathways that may be involved in BRCA1- associated tumorigenesis. The genes that are specifically altered in BRCA1- deficient cell
lines will be tested for their ability to induce transformation or alter growth
and tumor progression in BRCA1- deficient cells.
Jason Wilken, Ph.D.
Yale University School of Medicine
Overcoming Herceptin Resistance in
Ovarian Cancer
Improved methods of treating ovarian cancer patients are urgently
needed. While traditional chemotherapeutic drugs are effective in
destroying the tumor, these drugs often damage healthy tissues, resulting
in severe side effects. Recent advances in cancer treatment include
“antibodies”, compounds that can selectively inhibit the growth and
spreading of tumor cells without the range of side effects associated with
traditional chemotherapeutics. One such antibody is known as Herceptin
(by Genentech, Inc.) and is now in clinical use for the treatment of breast
cancer. Despite Herceptin’s remarkable success in breast cancer
treatment, it has proven surprisingly ineffective in the treatment of ovarian
cancer so far.
Our second aim is to develop in vitro and in vivo mouse models of
BRCA1-associated tumorigenesis. In situ tumor induction will be achieved
by direct ovary injection of retroviral vectors that contain candidate genes
that we identify as potential collaborators in the tumorigenic process. Such
models will be used to characterize the earliest stages of tumorigenesis,
identify the mechanisms of differential response of BRCA1-associated
tumors to DNA - damaging chemotherapy, and for the utilization of these
distinct mechanisms in the development of gene - or pathway - targeted
therapy.
Some of us suspect that fundamental differences in ovarian and breast
cancer biology leads to the observed difference in the efficacy of
Herceptin in ovarian cancer patients. Specifically, ovarian tumors often
produce a growth factor known as “heregulin”, and in fact, we propose
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fundraising
NEWS
PAST EVENTS
S TA N D U P F O R M A D E L I N E A N D O C R F
> Monday, May 8, 2006 - Carolines on Broadway, New York City
This annual tribute to Madeline Kahn was another fantastic success, raising
$85,000! Hosted by the hilarious Joy Behar, this special night was filled with
outrageous laughter thanks to the brilliant performances of Rosie O’Donnell, Mario
Cantone, Judy Gold, Susie Essman, Robert Klein, Colin Quinn and John Pinette.
OCRF is grateful to Caroline Hirsch, who underwrites the event, and to all the
performers for making this show possible.
OCRF’s Craig Rosati, radio personality Valerie Smaldone
and actor/comedian John Pinnette.
Mario Cantone
Robert Klein
O VA R I A N C Y C L E
> Saturday, April 29, 2006 - Atlanta, Georgia
The Ovarian Cycle raised a record $102,000!
OCRF was thrilled to be the primary beneficiary
of this wonderful event. Special thanks to Bethany
Diamond and her dedicated team for making this
Cyclists peddling away in Atlanta.
great day happen. The Ovarian Cycle is an
indoor cycling training program, which takes
place at numerous health clubs in the Atlanta area and culminates in the 100 mile Century
Ride celebration. Please go to www.ovariancycle.org for more information.
Ovarian Cycle founder, Bethany Diamond
(center) celebrating with Century Riders.
FUNDRAISING NEWS continued on next page
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FUNDRAISING NEWS continued from previous page
WEDDING SALON
> Monday, April 24, 2006 - New York City
For the third year in a row, OCRF received all proceeds from the silent auction at The Wedding Salon in New York City. This year, $9,000
was raised for the organization. The Wedding Salon is the world’s first luxury wedding showcase, featuring must - have products and services
for the sophisticated bride and groom.
TEAL MAGNOLIAS
An evening of fashion and awareness
to benefit The Ovarian Cancer
Research Fund
> Monday, April 3, 2006 - The Hilton, Cherry Hill, New Jersey
The Hilton in Cherry Hill, New Jersey was the setting for the fabulous
Teal Magnolias event on April 3rd. The evening raised an impressive
$140,000 for OCRF and we are thankful to the members of OCRF’s
Regional Steering Committee Dara Marcozzi, Mimi Yurkow, The Hon.
Susan Bass Levin, Jane F. Kelly and Anne Gutos for choosing us as the
Ovarian cancer survivors preparing to stage the stage for the
fashion show.
beneficiary. NJ Governor Jon Corzine served as the Honorary Chair of
the event that honored ovarian cancer survivors and the courageous
women who have lost their battle with this disease. The evening featured inspirational speeches by survivors and a fabulous fashion show
presented by Shimmer of Haddonfield, NJ, Andrea's Boutique of Marlton, NJ, and Suky Rosen of Ardmore, PA. Special thanks to the event
Premier Sponsors: South Jersey Industries and Cooper University Hospital and also the Platinum Sponsors Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth Schatz.
NJ Senator John Adler, Joanne Sabatini, Teal Magnolias Co-Chair, ovarian
cancer survivor Loretta Shatz, Ken Shatz, Lisa Blaber, Event Co-Chair and
Dara Marcozzi, ovarian cancer survivor & OCRF Steering Committee.
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Stacy Stevens (left), OCRF’s Kira Siebert and Louisa Terry and
committee member, Heather Hatcher.
Fashion and photography were the themes of a fabulous cocktail party and silent
auction at the Lindbrook Gallery in Los Angeles. The evening, which raised over
$250,000 for OCRF, was hosted by the President of L’Oréal Paris Carol J.
Hamilton, Editor - in - Chief of Harper's Bazaar Glenda Bailey, Desperate
Housewives star Eva Longoria, and model and actor Milla Jovovich.
Joy Bryant
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
> Thursday, December 8, 2005 - Los Angeles, California
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
L’ O R É A L PA R I S P R E S E N T S A S S E E N
IN...HARPER'S BAZAAR
Alan Cumming walking
the red carpet.
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
© Amy Graves / wireimage.com
Over 300 guests kicked off the holiday season by
bidding on silent auction items including pictures
from top fashion photographers such as Peter
Lindbergh, Solve Sundsbo, Enrique Badulescu,
Mario Sorrenti and Mario Testino, as well as
extraordinary fashion accessories, all from the
chic pages of Harper's Bazaar. The event was
generously underwritten by L’Oréal Paris thus
every penny raised went directly to OCRF’s
research initiatives.
L’Oréal Paris spokesperson Milla Jovovich at the auction.
Heather Locklear
UPCOMING EVENTS
S U B A R U W O M E N ’ S T R I AT H L O N
> Summer / Fall 2006
St. Petersburg, Florida
June 11, 2006
Naperville/Chicago, Illinois
June 25, 2006
OCRF is thrilled to welcome Subaru as the title sponsor
of the newly named Subaru US Women’s Triathlon
Series. The triathlons are designed for the first-timer to
Running to the finish.
the avid athlete and may be done individually or as a
relay. Participants may choose from the “Sprint” distance comprised of a .75k swim, 12.5k
bike, and 5k run, or a “Super Sprint” distance .375k swim, 10k bike, and 2.5k run.
Federal Way /
Seattle, Washington
September 10, 2006
The Team Hope program was created to
help raise funds for OCRF while uniting
an incredible group of women that
inspire us all. To join Team Hope,
San Diego, California
October 15, 2006
members simply agree to raise a
minimum of $500 for OCRF. Members
then receive their own webpage,
triathlon gear, access to an 8-week long
To join Team Hope, or for
more information on the
remaining series, please go
to www.uswts.com
Triumphant triathletes after the race.
online coaching program, in-person
contact with a local certified coach, and
entrance to the VIP area at the finish line.
FUNDRAISING NEWS
continued on next page
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Super
Saturday
S U P E R S AT U R D AY 9
> July 29, 2006 - Water Mill, New York
Super Saturday is OCRF’s day-long summer fundraising
event for the entire family, generously underwritten by
Donna Karan and sponsored by In Style. Activities include
© Sherly Rabbini & Josephine Solimene
9
FUNDRAISING NEWS continued from previous page
a one - of - a - kind designer garage sale with over 200
designers - called the "Rolls Royce of garage sales" by The
New York Times - a kids' carnival with rides, games and fun, a Target reading lounge,
fabulous raffle, and goodie bags. Food and refreshments are provided all day, with an
informal seated lunch in the afternoon. With special co - host Kelly Ripa, this year’s event is
sure to be another record-breaker.
Tickets begin at $400 and table packages begin at $2,500. For ticket and information,
Super Saturday supporter Heidi Klum.
please visit OCRF’s website at www.ocrf.org or call (212) 759 - 2800.
>
To see a complete list of our event participants and sponsors please visit: www.ocrf.org
A view of
Super Saturday.
L’ O R É A L L E G E N D S G A L A
> November 8, 2006, New York City
The biennial L’Oréal Legends Gala promises to be an outstanding evening – honoring legends Paul Charron, Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer, Liz Claiborne and Glenda Bailey, Editor - in - Chief, Harper’s Bazaar. The 2006 Liz Tilberis Humanitarian Award will be presented
to environmentalist and philanthropist Cindy Harrell Horn and Warner Bros. President and COO Alan Horn for their outstanding commitment
to countless noble causes. Dr. Peter Dottino, Director, Department of Gynecologic Oncology, Mount Sinai Medical Center will receive the
firs t - ever HOPE Award for his contributions to the field of ovarian cancer. This black - tie fête will be held at the American Museum of Natural
History and will include cocktails, a one - of - a - kind silent auction and a seated dinner. Tickets are $1,500 and tables begin at $15,000.
For more information, please call Inez Weinstein Special Events at (212) 254 - 6677.
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Spotlight
on the 2005 Liz Tilberis Scholars
The Liz Tilberis Scholars Program is OCRF’s signature research initiative. Through this program, mid - level researchers (post
doctoral/post fellowship) compete for unparalleled opportunities to develop techniques for early diagnosis and improved care of
women with ovarian cancer. Each scholar will receive a three-year grant of $100,000 per annum so they are able to devote their time
exclusively to cutting-edge ovarian cancer research. We congratulate these talented researchers and are delighted to profile their work.
JEREMY CHIEN, PH.D. | MAYO CLINIC
Regulated Targeting of Polarity Proteins by HtrA1: Implications in Ovarian Cancer Metastasis
The metastasis of primary ovarian cancer represents a main obstacle in the successful treatment of ovarian cancer and is the
main course of mortality in individuals with ovarian cancer. Emerging evidence suggests that disruption of apicobasal polarity
and subsequent acquisition of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype are essential for cancer cell metastasis.
PDZ domain-containing polarity complexes are important in regulating cell polarity, EMT, cell proliferation and metastasis.
Recently we have identified a PDZ-containing candidate tumor suppressor, HtrA1, as down-regulated in ovarian cancer. Reexpression of HtrA1 suppresses metastasis. HtrA1 also interacts with polarity complex proteins in yeast two-hybrid genetic
screening. Therefore, it is possible that HtrA1 may regulate cell polarity and that loss of HtrA1 may promote metastatic tumor
progression.
To address these possibilities, we will analyze the expression of HtrA1 in early stage (I-II) and late stage (III-IV) ovarian tumors and correlate
HtrA1 expression with metastatic behavior of ovarian cancer. We will also investigate whether HtrA1 interacts with PDZ-containing polarity
proteins and regulates cell polarity and metastasis.
The results from this study are expected to provide insights into biological processes underlying metastatic tumor progression, and would be
of benefit in the identification of ovarian tumors with metastatic potential and aggressive behavior.
This projected in named in honor of Louis Kogan and his commitment and distinguished service to OCRF.
JOSE R. CONEJO-GARCIA, M.D., PH.D. | DARTMOUTH MEDICAL SCHOOL
Vascular Leukocytes as Novel Anti-Tumor Therapeutic Targets
The current therapies against cancer show significant limitations. Alternative therapies are therefore needed. Since tumors
cannot grow in the absence of vascular support, tumor blood vessels represent important therapeutic targets. We have
identified a novel population of tumor-infiltrating leukocytes, termed Vascular Leukocytes (VLCs), which have the capacity
to form blood vessels in the ovarian cancer microenvironment. Temporary elimination of VLCs in mouse models does not harm
the animal and results in a dramatic decrease in tumor growth, due to the specific disruption of tumor vasculature.
These experiments are highly relevant for future human treatments, since VLCs are also strongly represented in human
ovarian cancer.
LIZ TILBERIS SCHOLARS continued on next page
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LIZ TILBERIS SCHOLARS continued from previous page
In order to design clinically effective ways of impeding tumor vascularization, we are investigating the precise contribution of VLCs to
vascularization at different stages of tumor progression. Interestingly, VLCs originate from leukocytes that have the potential to orchestrate an
anti-tumor immune response. We are therefore determining the mechanisms whereby ovarian cancer regulates the transformation of latent
immuno-stimulatory cells (VLC precursors) into immunosuppressive endothelial-like cells (VLCs), which act as accomplices in tumor growth and
dissemination. Since VLCs exhibit a distinct profile of markers, we are also testing new immunotherapies to target determinants that are specific
to VLCs and are absent in normal adult blood vessels. Our long-term goal is to reverse the angiogenic capacity of VLCs while exposing their
potential as active immunogenic, anti-tumor antigen-presenting cells. The identification of VLCs as significant contributors to tumor vascular
support will prove to be highly beneficial to the treatment of human ovarian cancer.
ANDREW LI, M.D. | CEDARS SINAI
MEDICAL CENTER
Combined Androgen Receptor/Epidermal Growth Factor
Receptor Antagonism in Epithelial Ovarian Carcinoma
While the majority of women with epithelial ovarian cancer enter
remission following surgical cytoreduction and platinum-taxane
chemotherapy, most will recur and ultimately succumb to progressive
disease refractory to cytotoxic chemotherapy. The limited response rates
of recurrent disease to second-line treatment underscores the critical need
for novel therapeutic strategies. Our previous work has identified
decreased surgical cytoreducibility and survival in women with ovarian
cancer who harbor androgen receptors with short genetic
polymorphisms; these short sequences, coding for a polyglutamine amino
acid tract, have been inversely correlated with androgen receptor activity. Epidermal
Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) signaling may represent a candidate mechanism by which
androgens promote aggressive epithelial ovarian cancer biology. We hypothesize that
combined androgen receptor-EGFR antagonism, targeted to patients with specific
androgen receptor genotypes, synergistically inhibits cellular proliferation of malignant
ovarian epithelial cells.
OCRF’s Scientific Advisory
Committee (SAC) is comprised of ten
of the world’s leading gynecologic
oncologists and researchers. They
are the undisputed experts in their
field and are devoted to OCRF’s
mission to eradicate ovarian cancer.
Andrew Berchuck, M.D., Chair
Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center
Carmel J. Cohen, M.D., Vice Chair
Columbia University, College of
Physicians & Surgeons
Robert C. Bast, Jr., M.D.
University of Texas, M.D. Anderson
Cancer Center
Jonathan S. Berek, M.D., MMSc.
Stanford University School of Medicine
Jeff Boyd, Ph.D.
Curtis and Elizabeeth Anderson
Cancer Institute
To test this hypothesis, we propose to study ovarian cancer cells in cell culture and in a
mouse ovarian cancer model. To establish the molecular interaction between androgen
receptor and EGFR, we will examine our unique library of cell lines genetically modulated
to contain androgen receptors of different polyglutamine lengths. Activation of specific
Molly Brewer, D.V.M., M.D., M.S.
Arizona Cancer Center
proteins significant in ovarian cancer cellular progression will be examined in vitro, and
these same cell lines will be introduced into mice for studies comparing tumor growth with
treatment of combined androgen receptor and EGFR inhibition. To date, no studies have
explored combined AR-EGFR antagonism as a therapeutic modality. We hypothesize that
disregulation of this molecular pathway is a fundamental flaw in aggressive epithelial
ovarian tumor biology, and elucidation of these specific mechanisms will promote novel
therapeutic strategies to treat women with recurrent ovarian cancer.
Stephen C. Rubin, M.D.
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania
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Robert F. Ozols, M.D., Ph.D.
Fox Chase Cancer Center
Carolyn D. Runowicz, M.D.
University of Connecticut Health Center
Michael Seiden M.D. Ph.D.
Massachusetts General Hospital
Ways
to
Give Back
L’Oréal Paris Color of Hope Bracelet
L’Oréal Paris continues their longstanding commitment and ongoing relationship with OCRF with a new
OCRF fundraising initiative for 2006: a limited edition “Color of Hope” Sterling Silver Bracelet. In
recognition of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month the bracelet will be available for sale starting in
September. The silver Color of Hope bracelet features a rope design with “O” toggle clasp, adorned
with pavé cubic zirconias to give a beautiful brilliance. And to ensure that all women can adorn their
wrists with this bracelet, L’Oréal Paris is making it available in three lengths: 7”, 7.25” and 8”. The
Color of Hope Bracelet is available through the L’Oréal Paris’ Web site (www.lorealparisusa.com) and
at L’Oréal Paris retail stores for $24.95, with 100% of net profits benefiting OCRF.
Fuss Frocks: What’s the “fuss” all about?
After spending a career in advertising working on campaigns as diverse as credit cards, hotels, cell
phones, computer chips and iPods, Lissa Lowe decided to focus on her “baby” full time: fuss™, a line of
100% cuddly cotton apparel for babies and grown ups too. The collection is designed to blend the
yesteryear charm of hand illustrations with a playful but simple aesthetic. Goodies are hand silk-screened
on items from American Apparel as well as hand packaged. The magic is in the details, she says. Lowe’s
passion is filled with purpose. Fuss donates 10% of its net profits to OCRF in honor of women everywhere
who continue to keep joy in their hearts and a sparkle in their eyes despite the challenges of illness…
and in memory of her mom. Now that is something to “fuss” about. Shop www.fuss - frocks.com or call
(877) 415 - FUSS.
September is...
OVARIAN CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
Be sure to visit our website at www.ocrf.org for more ways you can help raise awareness and shop to support ovarian
cancer research. From cell phones to gym memberships, we will have a whole host products and ways that you can help
find a cure.
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Know the
Symptoms of
Dedicated
to
advancing
Ovarian Cancer
• Vague but persistent and unexplained gastrointestinal complaints such
as gas, nausea, and indigestion
• Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling and/or pain; bloating and/or
feeling of fullness
• Unexplained change in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight gain or loss
research,
raising
awareness
& finding a
• Frequency and/or urgency of urination
cure
• New and unexplained abnormal postmenopausal vaginal bleeding
Every woman should undergo an annual rectal and vaginal pelvic examination. If an
irregularity of the ovary is detected, or if some of the vague symptoms are expressed,
further testing should be performed. This may include a CA -125 blood test and a
transvaginal sonogram. It is important to note that the PAP test is used to detect cervical
for
ovarian cancer
cancer, NOT ovarian cancer. If you are concerned about your risk of ovarian cancer, you
should speak to your gynecologist for more information.
For more information or to receive a free information packet, please call OCRF at
1-800-873-9569
or go to
www.ocrf.org
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
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Suite 1400
New York, NY 10122
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