Practical Knowledge: Women’s Health Integrated Research Center analyzes GYN cancer at the molecular level

(October 2, 2013) Researchers at Inova are actively researching at the molecular level to find treatments and prevention techniques for gynecologic cancer. The Women’s Health Integrated Research Center at Inova, an 8,000-square-foot laboratory, is developing “bench-to-bedside” therapeutic opportunities for patients, notes G. Larry Maxwell, MD, Chairman of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Inova Women’s Hospital at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus.

“Genomics and proteomics data gathered at the bench are being studied in animal models and human trials, translating into novel, targeted drug strategies for patients with gynecologic cancer,” he says.

The group has identified a number of proteins that are, in part, associated with resistant chemotherapy. It has developed inhibitors to this resistance that sensitize patients to the effects of chemotherapy and is currently developing therapeutic strategies for clinical trials early next year. Dr. Maxwell’s group is also finalizing a phase 1b study using a vaccine therapy for patients with ovarian and endometrial cancer.

“We’re doing lots of science that’s important, ultimately contributing to our overall knowledge of gynecologic cancers,” Dr. Maxwell says.

# # #

Click to see more news and articles from Inova Fairfax Hospital in the Summer / Fall 2013 issue of INhealth magazine:  Read more