BRCA Gene Mutation Testing in Ovarian Cancer Patients and Its Impact on Targeted Therapy

Ovarian cancer is a highly fatal gynecological malignancy, with its early symptoms being subtle, resulting in most patients being diagnosed at an advanced stage. Studies have shown that BRCA gene mutations hold significant clinical importance in ovarian cancer patients. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are not only closely linked to the onset of ovarian cancer but also play a crucial role in its progression and treatment. The advancement of gene sequencing technology has provided more efficient and accurate methods for detecting BRCA mutations, particularly with the application of next-generation sequencing (NGS), which has greatly improved both detection rates and accuracy. In the field of targeted therapy, PARP inhibitors, as a novel treatment strategy, have been widely applied to ovarian cancer patients with BRCA mutations. These inhibitors work by suppressing the DNA repair pathway, inducing apoptosis in cancer cells, thereby significantly extending patient survival. However, resistance to PARP inhibitors in some patients remains a key challenge in current research. With the deepening of individualized treatment concepts, BRCA mutation testing not only assists doctors in assessing patient sensitivity to PARP inhibitors but also provides critical insights for developing personalized treatment plans. This paper reviews the clinical applications of BRCA gene mutations in ovarian cancer, explores gene testing technologies and their impact on targeted therapy, and emphasizes the analysis of the mechanisms and resistance issues associated with PARP inhibitors, aiming to provide theoretical support for precision medicine in ovarian cancer patients.