DNA Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms as Predictors of Toxicity

The presence of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes involved in platinum and taxane metabolism and detoxification have been correlated to increased risk of severe adverse events (AEs) when patients receive these drugs. The investigators propose studies to validate a comprehensive panel of twelve SNPs in ovarian cancer patients that may predict AEs when treated with therapies that include platinum and taxanes. Using these results to stratify patients to different dosing regimens, routes of administration, or in recurrent cancer to aid in drug selection, may improve outcome and reduce costs for the management of drug related side effects while not changing standard of care. Since these differences can be detected from blood, the determination of genotypes can be done using a standard blood sample taken after ovarian cancer is confirmed on the patient's pathology report. These genetic differences can be detected by QPCR and Next Generation Sequencing.