Folate Receptor-Positive Cancer Insights
- Ovarian cancers with high FR-alpha expression, known as folate receptor-positive cancer, have high levels of folate receptors on cancer cell surfaces.
- Testing for elevated FRα levels helps understand ovarian cancer progression and how aggressively it is spreading.
- Folate receptor positivity is determined through tissue sampling and immunohistochemistry (IHC) testing.
- Treatment options include the FDA-approved drug Elahere. Ongoing research is exploring new therapies like farletuzumab and STRO-002.
When FRα levels are high, it can mean the cancer is more aggressive and likely to spread, which helps doctors track how the cancer is progressing.
Read MoreWhat tests will tell me if my cancer is Folate Receptor Positive?
When doctors suspect ovarian cancer has returned, they take a small tissue sample to check for folate receptor expression, which means they look at how much of the FRα protein is found on the cancer cells’ surface. This can be done during surgery or a biopsy.This sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed using a test called immunohistochemistry (IHC). Immunohistochemistry helps measure the levels of FRα protein in the tissue sample.
It’s important to talk to your doctor about this test because it’s not routinely ordered for all ovarian cancer patients. However, getting it done as early as possible can help get you the best treatment for you.
In certain places in the US, including Minneapolis, patients can get this testing for free if:
- You have ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer.
- You live and get treatment in the US or a US Territory.
- You haven’t had this test before.
- Your doctor thinks it’s right for you.
NeoGenomics and Labcorp, are two leading companies in medical testing that offer these free tests to eligible patients through programs like FR-ASSIST™.
NeoGenomics specializes in cancer genetic testing and molecular diagnostics, while Labcorp is a global life sciences company known for its wide range of diagnostic services.
Either way, getting the test can give doctors valuable information about how to best treat you for ovarian cancer.
Related: What Are Tennis Legend Chris Evert’s Options Now That Her Ovarian Cancer Has Returned?
What is the drug Elahere?
Elahere (molecular name mirvetuximab soravtansine) is a relatively new drug for FRα-positive, platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer. “Platinum-resistant” means that the cancer does not respond well to chemotherapy drugs containing platinum, which are often used as a first-line treatment.
This cancer doesn’t respond well to certain chemotherapy drugs, even after trying three different kinds.
Elahere works by targeting the FRα protein found in high levels on cancer cells but not healthy ones. It stops cancer cells from growing while sparing healthy cells, making treatment more effective with fewer side effects.
In a phase 3 study called SORAYA:
- About 32% of patients saw their tumors shrink or disappear with Elahere, and some even had their cancer completely go away.
- The average duration of response was 6.9 months.
- Many patients had benefit from the drug even if they had tried other treatments
Although Elahere tends to carry fewer side effects than many ovarian cancer drugs, it can cause blurred vision. tiredness, and nausea. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid Elahere due to safety concerns/
If you are considering taking Elahere, discuss with your doctor to make sure you understand potential benefits and downsides.
Related: Is The Drug Elahere An Option When My Ovarian Cancer Returns?
Are there other drugs that treat folate receptor-positive cancer?
There are several other drugs under development that may help in folate receptor-positive ovarian cancer. Both are in clinical trials.
A clinical trial is like a special test to see if a new medicine or treatment works and is safe for people. Doctors give the treatment to patients and carefully watch what happens, checking for any side effects or changes. This helps them figure out if the treatment can help others with the same problem.
Farletuzumab, a special protein called an antibody, is designed to target FRα on cancer cells. It stops tumor growth and progression by attaching to FRα. It is currently being tested in clinical trials to make sure it’s safe, effective, and given at the right dose.
Another hopeful treatment, STRO-002, is also being studied in clinical trials. Like Elahere, it combines an antibody with a powerful poison. However, STRO-002 zeroes in on FRα-positive cancer cells. By delivering the poison directly to these cells, it kills them.
Ask your doctor if one of these clinical trials makes sense for you. They can help you identify and apply for the one nearest you.
Related: SurvivorNet Clinical Trial Finder
Questions to ask your doctor
- Should I be tested for folate receptor expression?
- Am I a good candidate for taking Elahere?
- What are the pros and cons of testing and treatment?
- Will my treatment be covered by insurance?
- Are there any clinical trials that are right for me?
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