Proteomic biomarkers for ovarian cancer risk in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and biomarker database integration

Objective: To review and identify possible biomarkers for ovarian cancer (OC) in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Design: Systematic literature searches of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane using the search terms "proteomics," "proteomic," and "ovarian cancer" or "ovarian carcinoma." Proteomic biomarkers for OC were then integrated with an updated previously published database of all proteomic biomarkers identified to date in patients with PCOS. Setting: Academic department of obstetrics and gynecology in the United Kingdom. Patient(s): A total of 180 women identified in the six studies. Intervention(s): Tissue samples from women with OC vs. tissue samples from women without OC. Main Outcome Measure(s): Proteomic biomarkers, proteomic technique used, and methodologic quality score. Result(s): A panel of six biomarkers was overexpressed both in women with OC and in women with PCOS. These biomarkers include calreticulin, fibrinogen-gamma, superoxide dismutase, vimentin, malate dehydrogenase, and lamin B2. Conclusion(s): These biomarkers could help improve our understanding of the links between PCOS and OC and could potentially be used to identify subgroups of women with PCOS at increased risk of OC. More studies are required to further evaluate the role these biomarkers play in women with PCOS and OC. (Fertil Steril (R) 2012; 98: 1590-601. (C) 2012 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.)