The evolving role of MUC16 (CA125) in the transformation of ovarian cells and the progression of neoplasia

MUC16 (the cancer antigen CA125) is the most commonly used serum biomarker in epithelial ovarian cancer, with increasing levels reflecting disease progression. It is a transmembrane glycoprotein with multiple isoforms, undergoing significant changes through the metastatic process. Aberrant glycosylation and cleavage with overexpression of a small membrane-bound fragment consist MUC16-related mechanisms that enhance malignant potential. Even...