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Molecular Advances in Gynecologic Cancer, 2nd Edition

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Oncology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 July 2026 | Viewed by 5803

Special Issue Editor

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Gynecologic cancers include those that affect the female reproductive organs, including five major types, namely ovarian, uterine, cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancer, as well as the rare fallopian tube cancer. Research focused on the molecular characterization of particular types of cancers provides us with a better understanding of tumorigenesis as well as the pre-clinical management of various cancer types. Thus, molecular advancements in this matter provide us with the chance for advanced screening tests, along with new diagnostic and prognostic markers. In this Special Issue, we would like to invite you to submit original research articles and comprehensive reviews about the recent molecular advancements in the field of gynecological oncology.

Dr. Alicja Forma
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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Keywords

  • ovarian cancer
  • uterine cancer
  • cervical cancer
  • vaginal cancer
  • vulvar cancer

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (2 papers)

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Review

23 pages, 415 KB  
Review
HPV-Driven Cervical Carcinogenesis: Genetic and Epigenetic Mechanisms and Diagnostic Approaches
by Evangelia Legaki, Theofania Lappa, Konstantina-Lida Prasoula, Zoi Kardasi, Emmanouil Kalampokas, Theodoros Kalampokas, Maria G. Roubelakis, Ekaterina Charvalos and Maria Gazouli
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 803; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020803 - 13 Jan 2026
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1691
Abstract
Cervical cancer remains a major global public health concern, with persistent infection by high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) types recognized as the primary etiological factor. This review explores the multifactorial nature of the disease, focusing on the complex interplay between host genetic susceptibility and [...] Read more.
Cervical cancer remains a major global public health concern, with persistent infection by high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) types recognized as the primary etiological factor. This review explores the multifactorial nature of the disease, focusing on the complex interplay between host genetic susceptibility and epigenetic alterations that drive cervical carcinogenesis. Evidence from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) is discussed, highlighting the contribution of specific genetic loci, predominantly within the HLA region, to susceptibility to HPV infection and disease progression. In parallel, the review examines the molecular mechanisms by which the viral oncoproteins E6 and E7 promote genetic instability and epigenetic reprogramming, including histone modifications and dysregulation of non-coding RNAs. Particular emphasis is placed on DNA methylation, affecting both the viral genome and host genes such as FAM19A4, CADM1, PAX1, and MAL, as a promising biomarker for triage and detection of high-grade intraepithelial lesions (CIN2+). Finally, the review evaluates currently available methylation-based assays and self-sampling devices, highlighting their potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy and increase participation in cervical cancer screening programs. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Gynecologic Cancer, 2nd Edition)
35 pages, 1679 KB  
Review
From Inflammation to Malignancy: The Link Between Endometriosis and Gynecological Cancers
by Karolina Kłodnicka, Aleksandra Michalska, Jacek Januszewski, Alicja Forma, Grzegorz Teresiński, Jolanta Flieger, Jacek Bogucki, Marcin Maciejewski, Kinga Syty and Jacek Baj
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 11816; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262411816 - 7 Dec 2025
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3760
Abstract
Endometriosis, a chronic estrogen-dependent disease, is associated with a risk of developing gynecological cancers. The mechanisms of this association remain unclear, but emerging evidence implicates key signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR and ARID1A alterations, in malignant transformation. This article examines current reports on the [...] Read more.
Endometriosis, a chronic estrogen-dependent disease, is associated with a risk of developing gynecological cancers. The mechanisms of this association remain unclear, but emerging evidence implicates key signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT/mTOR and ARID1A alterations, in malignant transformation. This article examines current reports on the association between endometriosis and cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancers, with particular emphasis on diagnostic challenges and molecular mechanisms. Imaging methods such as ultrasound, magnetic resonance imaging, and computed tomography (CT) are used for diagnosis, as well as biomarkers such as Cancer Antigen-125 (CA-125) and Human Epididymal protein 4 (HE4), but their specificity is limited, motivating research into novel molecular and non-invasive diagnostics. Laparoscopy is an invasive diagnostic method, serving as the gold standard for confirming the diagnosis. We discuss personalized clinical strategies, including risk-based surveillance for patients with atypical lesions or ARID1A alterations, and implications for ovarian cancer management in endometriosis. Prospective cohort studies will be necessary to further understand the complex mechanisms of endometriosis’s malignant transformation. Optimizing therapy and improving quality of life require a holistic, individualized approach to patient care. This review provides an integrated synthesis of epidemiological and molecular evidence, highlighting both established and emerging targets for diagnosis and treatment in endometriosis-associated malignancies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Advances in Gynecologic Cancer, 2nd Edition)
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