Ovarian cancer stem cell–associated antigen (OCSC marker)

Ovarian cancer stem cell–associated antigens (OCSCAs) refer to a heterogeneous group of proteins and enzymes, such as CD44, CD133, ALDH1, and EpCAM, that are preferentially expressed on the surface or within a subpopulation of ovarian cancer cells with stem-like properties (Lupia & Cavallaro, 2017, Cells). These cells are characterized by their capacity for self-renewal, multi-lineage differentiation, and high resistance to conventional platinum-based chemotherapy (Silva et al., 2011, Cancer Research). The presence of these antigens is strongly associated with tumor initiation, metastasis, and disease recurrence, as OCSCs often survive initial treatment to drive subsequent relapse (Landen et al., 2010, Molecular Cancer Therapeutics). Therapeutic strategies targeting these antigens include monoclonal antibodies like Catumaxomab (anti-EpCAM) and experimental agents like RG7356 (anti-CD44), as well as inhibitors of stemness-related pathways such as Wnt/beta-catenin and Hedgehog (Heiss et al., 2010, Expert Review of Anticancer Therapy). However, the clinical development of OCSCA-targeted therapies faces challenges due to the lack of a single definitive marker, the inherent plasticity of cancer cells, and potential on-target, off-tumor toxicities in normal stem cell niches. Eradicating these cells is considered a critical step toward achieving long-term remission in ovarian cancer patients.

Other names

Ovarian cancer stem cell markersOCSC antigensOvarian CSC markersOvarian cancer stem cell-associated antigens

Targeted depletion of cancer stem cell populations through antibody-dependent cellular cytotoxicity (ADCC), inhibition of self-renewal signaling pathways (e.g., STAT3, Hedgehog, Wnt), or induction of differentiation.