The expression of cancer-testis antigen in ovarian cancer and the development of immunotherapy

Ovarian cancer is a relatively common tumor in women with the highest mortality among female reproductive system tumors. The lack of apparent early symptoms and effective screening strategies often leads to ovarian cancer being diagnosed at an advanced stage. Immunotherapy relying on tumor-associated antigens might improve the treatment of ovarian cancer. Cancer-testis antigens (CTAs) are ideal tumor-associated antigens, and MAGE-A, NY-ESO-1, CT45, and Sp17 are classic CTAs highly expressed in ovarian cancer. Here, we review the research on CTAs in ovarian cancer, including prognostic value and advances in immunotherapy, all of which are essential for developing a theoretical basis for targeted therapy strategies.