VENUS: Molecular characterisation of cervical cancer

The VENUS study is a prospective translational single-institution study that focuses on the molecular characterisation of cervical cancer histological subtypes. It involved 124 cervical cancer patients, primarily with stages 2 to 4A. Among these patients, 53% had squamous cell carcinoma, and 34% had adenocarcinoma.

The study identified over 240 molecular alterations in the tumour samples. The most frequently detected alteration was in the PIK3CA gene, occurring in approximately 17% of cases, with a higher prevalence in squamous cell carcinoma compared to adenocarcinoma. TP53 and KRAS alterations were also common, particularly in adenocarcinoma.

Additionally, all tumour samples were found to be microsatellite stable (MSI stable). Specific rare subtypes exhibited unique molecular alterations. Adenosquamous carcinoma showed alterations in genes such as BARD1 and BRAF, while neuroendocrine carcinoma had alterations in ATM and MYC.

There was no observed correlation between the identified molecular alterations and overall survival.

In conclusion, cervical cancer, like other gynaecological tumours, is a heterogeneous molecular disease. Understanding this molecular landscape is crucial for the development of biomarkers and new drugs, potentially leading to personalised treatment approaches in cervical cancer.