abstract: A microRNA survival signature (MiSS) for advanced ovarian cancer (serous)

 Abstract

Objectives

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of small non-coding RNAs that negatively regulate gene expression primarily through post-transcriptional modification. We tested the hypothesis that miRNA expression is associated with overall survival in advanced ovarian cancer.

Results

Of all patients, 80% had high-grade, stage IIIC tumors and 64% underwent optimal cytoreduction. The median survival for the entire cohort was 49 ± 4 months. The training set identified 3 miRNAs associated with survival — miR-337, miR-410, and miR-645. An miRNA signature containing miR-410 and miR-645 was most strongly associated with overall survival in the training set (HR = 2.96, 95% CI: 1.51–5.78). This miRNA survival signature (MiSS) was validated in the test set (HR = 1.71, 95% CI: 1.05–2.78). The MiSS was independent of FIGO stage and surgical debulking.

Conclusions

The data suggest that an MiSS that contains miR-410 and miR-645 is negatively associated with overall survival in advanced serous ovarian cancer. This signature, when further validated, may be useful in individualizing care for the ovarian cancer patient. Pathway analyses identify biologically plausible mechanisms.

Research highlights

► A MicroRNA Survival Signature was developed in advanced ovarian carcinoma.
► The signature was independent of common clinical co-variates.