Introduction/Background The ovarian tumor microenvironment included different cell types that secrete chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors. These factors may help the immune system eliminate cancer cells or promote their growth and progression. Among these factors, Transforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-beta), that plays a multifaceted roles in normal development and homeostasis, by regulating various physiological processes, and Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), an important angiogenic factor, has been reported to influence cancer growth and development. We evaluated the plasma TGF-beta and VEGF levels in ovarian carcinoma and their association with clinicopathological factors.

Methodology Plasma TGF-beta and VEGF concentrations were assessed using the sandwich ELISA technique according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Statistical data analyses were performed using the GraphPad Prism data analysis software.

Results The study included 31 unrelated patients with ovarian carcinoma and 35 healthy controls. Results revealed a significant increase in TGF-beta concentrations in patients compared with controls, with median of 3.176 ng/ml and 2.416 ng/ml, respectively (Mann-Whitney test, p=0.01). Similarly, VEGF concentrations were higher in ovarian carcinoma patients than in healthy controls, with median of 1.412 ng/ml and 1.191 ng/ml, respectively (p=0.06). Stratification according to ovarian carcinoma stage revealed a highly significant difference in TGF-beta concentrations between early and advanced stages of cancer (p<0.0001). An increase in TGF-beta concentrations was observed in advanced stages compared with early stages (3.457 ng/ml vs 2.339 ng/ml, respectively). Analysis of histological subtypes showed an increase in TGF-beta concentration in serous carcinoma patients compared with other subtypes, although this difference did not reach statistical significance (median: 3.185 ng/ml vs 2.527 ng/ml, respectively). No statistical difference between clinicopathological parameters and plasma VEGF concentrations.

Conclusion Our study strengthens the role of plasma TGF-beta and VEGF in the pathogenesis of ovarian cancer. Furthermore, this cytokine may constitute a biomarker of disease progression.

Disclosures The authors certify that there is no conflict of interest to declare.