Rules of tumor cell development and their application to biomarkers for ovarian cancer.

PURPOSE/

OBJECTIVES

To apply the Hanahan and Weinberg conceptual framework for tumor development to the specific biomarkers observed or expressed in ovarian cancer.

DATA SOURCES: Data-based publications, topical reviews, and book chapters.

DATA SYNTHESIS: Articles specific to ovarian cancer were reviewed to examine whether the six rules from the Hanahan and Weinberg conceptual framework were applicable to biomarkers of ovarian cancer. This approach allows for the application of a general framework for the development of solid tumors to the development of ovarian cancer.

CONCLUSIONS

The six rules for tumor cell development outlined in the Hanahan and Weinberg conceptual framework are applicable to biomarkers expressed or observed in patients with ovarian cancer.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING: Oncology nurses can enhance their clinical teaching by integrating this information into their practice. Nurses who conduct research on ovarian cancer can use this framework to guide the selection of biomarker(s) for these studies. Finally, nurse educators can use this framework when teaching students key concepts in the care of patients with cancer.