Health
Ovarian cancer treatment on fast track for FDA approval as chemo alternatives emerge: 'We're making progress'
A new wave of cancer treatments is looking promising for the future of oncologic care.
The ovarian cancer drug RC88, which is made by the Chinese biopharmaceutical company RemeGen, received FDA approval for Phase 2 clinical trials earlier this month.
The drug received fast-track designation (FTD) for the treatment of “platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancers,” the company confirmed to Fox News Digital.
CERVICAL CANCER DRUG RAISES SURVIVAL RATE BY 30% COMPARED TO CHEMOTHERAPY: ‘GAME-CHANGER’
RC88 is an anti-drug conjugate (ADC) designed to treat aggressive ovarian cancers in patients with “poor prognosis,” according to the company.
An ADC is “a class of drugs designed as a targeted therapy for treating disease,” per the National Institutes of Health.
RC88 aims to treat aggressive ovarian cancers in patients with a poor prognosis, according to RemeGen, the China-based company that makes the drug. (iStock)
The drug targets mesothelin, a protein found in tumors.
“This development is not just a scientific advancement, but a beacon of hope for countless women battling this formidable disease,” a RemeGen spokesperson said in an email to Fox News Digital.
RemeGen intends to launch international and multicenter clinical studies in the U.S., China, the European Union and other regions, according to a press release.
The new drug received fast-track designation (FTD) for the treatment of “platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube and primary peritoneal cancers,” RemeGen confirmed to Fox News Digital. (iStock)
The clinical trials will study participants in multiple countries to determine optimal dosage, effectiveness and safety of the treatment.
RC88’s clinical data findings are slated to be released at the Annual Meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in May 2024 in Chicago.
BREAST CANCER BREAKTHROUGH: AI PREDICTS A THIRD OF CASES PRIOR TO DIAGNOSIS IN MAMMOGRAPHY STUDY
Dr. Brian Slomovitz, director of gynecologic oncology and co-chair of the Cancer Research Committee at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida, is familiar with RemeGen’s treatment, noting that anti-drug conjugates have surfaced as a “relatively new class of drug.”
He told Fox News Digital in an interview, “[It] definitely has a lot of promise,” noting also that there have been many more failures than successes.
Brian Slomovitz, M.D., is director of Gynecologic Oncology and co-chair of the Cancer Research Committee at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida. He noted the “promise” of the ovarian cancer drug RC88. (Mount Sinai Medical Center)
Among those successes is an ADC drug called Elahere (mirvetuximab soravtansine-gynx), which is indicated for FRa positive, platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer.
The FDA granted accelerated approval for Elahere in Nov. 2022, according to an agency press release.
Other ADCs in development include a drug called TIVDAK for cervical cancer as well as anti-HER2 treatments for breast cancer, according to Slomovitz.
ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD CONSUMPTION LINKED TO HIGHER RISK OF DEATH FROM OVARIAN, BREAST CANCERS: NEW STUDY
“It’s going to be much more effective than [chemo drug] Herceptin,” he predicted. “So, it’s really a novel class [of drugs] that go into the cells in a unique way.”
Phase 3 clinical trials of TIVDAK (tisotumab vedotin) were linked to a 30% overall reduction in the risk of death compared to chemotherapy.
A cancer doctor described ADC approaches to treating cancer as a “novel class [of drugs] that go into the cells in a unique way.” (iStock)
In a previous interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Kathleen Moore, associate director of clinical research at Stephenson Cancer Center in Oklahoma City, shared that the TIVDAK therapy has been effective in shrinking her own patients’ tumors.
“In the past, we just did not have active medications and our patients really were left with ineffective therapies, and they just died,” she said. “They’re feeling better because their disease is shrinking.”
OVARIAN CANCER COULD BE DETECTED EARLY WITH A NEW BLOOD TEST, STUDY FINDS
During the 2023 European Society of Medical Oncology Congress in Madrid, Spain, Moore presented another ADC treatment called raludotatug deruxtecan (R-DXd), which was confirmed as “efficacious” by the National Library of Medicine in treating ovarian and kidney cancers.
As ovarian cancer develops, the level of mesothelia increases — which gives RC88 its “unique” target.
“R-DXd is the first ADC targeting CDH6, [which has been] tested in ovarian cancer and demonstrates very strong signals of efficacy,” Moore said in her data presentation, according to OncLive, the Oncology Specialty Group’s website.
Seventy percent of women who were diagnosed with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) have already reached an advanced stage, according to RemeGen.
Phase 3 clinical trials of TIVDAK (tisotumab vedotin) were linked to a 30% overall reduction in the risk of death compared to chemotherapy. (iStock)
EOC remains a “significant cause of cancer deaths among women,” as there are “no effective screening methods” and most patients experience a relapse within two years, the company added.
As ovarian cancer develops, the level of mesothelia increases — which gives RC88 its “unique” target, the RemeGen press release stated.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
The FDA’s approval of RC88 as an investigational new drug “marks a pivotal moment in our commitment to address the challenges of platinum-resistant recurrent ovarian cancer,” RemeGen CEO Dr. Jianmin Fang wrote in a statement to Fox News Digital.
RemeGen calls RC88 — given its “unique targeting mechanism” — a “beacon of hope for countless women battling this formidable disease.” (iStock)
“Our focus remains on developing innovative treatments that can significantly improve patient outcomes in areas with critical unmet needs,” he said.
“RC88, with its unique targeting mechanism, exemplifies our dedication to pioneering advancements in cancer therapy.”
It’s important that ADCs are continuously studied, Slomovitz noted, as the bar for approval is “getting higher and higher.”
He added, “The good news is, we’re making progress.”
For more Health articles, visit foxnews.com/health.
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
As winter weather moves in, cozy essentials like scarves, plush throws and heated bedding become everyday comforts.
But dermatologists caution that these cold-weather favorites can secretly undermine skin health — trapping sweat and bacteria, causing irritation and exposing the skin to excess heat.
Choosing the right materials for wellness — and using them safely — can make a big difference.
VIRAL ALL-WHITE WELLNESS PUSH COULD BOOST MENTAL HEALTH — HERE ARE 4 ESSENTIALS TO CONSIDER
Here are five winter must-haves and gift ideas, with expert tips on how to keep skin healthy and happy while staying warm this season.
Soft scarf, $19.99, Amazon.com
Scarves made of natural fiber, like this one that is 100% cotton, may help if you’re prone to irritation. (Amazon)
A soft scarf is a staple for cold days and an easy way to elevate a winter outfit.
Yet, if breakouts are appearing along the neck, jawline or chest, that favorite accessory may be part of the problem.
BACKYARD BIRDING IS BOOMING — HERE ARE MUST-HAVE GIFTS TOPPING WISH LISTS THIS SEASON
“You should wash your scarf as often as your clothes to prevent breakouts,” Annabelle Taurua, a beauty expert at Fresha, a beauty and wellness booking platform headquartered in London, told Fox News Digital.
Cotton is a better choice than polyester, she also noted, as it’s more breathable and allows sweat to evaporate.
Fluffy blankets, $28.97, Potterybarn.com
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin — which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth. (Pottery Barn)
Fluffy blankets make for perfect cozy days at home, but their soft fibers can trap sweat, oils and dead skin, which can clog pores and encourage bacteria growth.
Rough textures or infrequent washing can also irritate sensitive skin and worsen breakouts.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
“Regularly wash your blankets, especially those made from synthetic or fluffy materials, to remove built-up oils and dirt,” Taurua advised.
She recommended breathable materials like cotton or linen, as well as hypoallergenic options for anyone prone to irritation.
Good set of sheets, $49.99, Amazon.com
Much like scarves, natural fibers are the way to go for your linens to avoid irritation. (iStock)
Cold weather makes lingering in bed especially tempting, but lying on unwashed bedding can worsen acne.
Pillowcases and sheets quickly collect oil, bacteria and dead skin cells, which transfer directly onto the face.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“Washing bedding frequently is important,” Taurua said. “You should aim to change and wash your pillowcases every two to three days and your sheets at least once a week.”
Heated blanket, $33.99, Walmart.com
Heated blankets are a great way to stay warm during the winter. (Walmart)
When using a heated blanket, start with the lowest heat setting and limit use, said Taurua.
“Once you’re warm, switch to a regular blanket,” she advised.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
She also said it’s best to avoid direct contact for long periods to reduce irritation.
Hot water bottle, $12.99, Amazon.com
A traditional winter staple, hot water bottles offer quick comfort — but they come with risks similar to heated blankets, including burns, scalding and long-term heat-related skin damage.
Hot water bottles should never be filled with boiling water, experts advise. (Amazon)
“Never fill a hot water bottle with boiling water,” Taurua said.
“Only use hot, not boiling, water, and fill it to a maximum of two-thirds.”
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
She recommended wrapping the bottle in a towel or cover to avoid direct skin contact and limiting use to around 20 minutes.
Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items.
Use escape to exit the menu.
Sign Up
Create a free account to access exclusive content, play games, solve puzzles, test your pop-culture knowledge and receive special offers.
Already have an account? Login
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Comedian Amy Schumer, 44, has recently come clean about her struggle with Cushing’s syndrome, leading to a dramatic weight loss.
Schumer’s transformation has sparked conversation online, to which she responded in a now-deleted Instagram post that shut down speculation about cosmetic enhancements.
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” she emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler.
AMY SCHUMER DROPPED 50 POUNDS TO BATTLE DISEASE THAT ‘CAN KILL YOU’ IF UNTREATED
Schumer doubled down that her weight loss was not about her appearance, but about staying alive.
“Not to look hot, which does feel fun and temporary,” she said. “I did it to survive. I had a disease that makes your face extremely puffy that can kill you, but the internet caught it and that disease has cleared.”
Amy Schumer attends Variety’s 2024 Power of Women: New York event on May 2, 2024, in New York City on the left. On the right, Schumer later poses for a photo posted to Instagram after her weight loss. (Marleen Moise/WireImage; Amy Schumer/Instagram)
“Sorry for whatever feeling it’s giving you that I lost that weight,” she added. “I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro]. Sorry to anyone they let down. I’m pain free. I can [play] tag with my son.”
ON A GLP-1? HOW TO SURVIVE HOLIDAY MEALS WITHOUT DERAILING YOUR PROGRESS
The actress also addressed her shifting hormones, saying that she’s “happy to share more if anyone has any questions about how I’m looking or feeling or where I am in my perimenopause process.”
“I didn’t lose 30lbs — I lost 50,” Schumer emphasized on social media, adding that she does not get Botox or filler. (Amy Schumer/Instagram)
What is Cushing’s syndrome?
Schumer previously revealed that she had been diagnosed with Cushing’s syndrome, a hormonal disorder that can cause extreme swelling, fatigue and potentially fatal complications.
Dr. Peter Balazs, a hormone and weight loss specialist in New Jersey, provided more details on the condition in an interview with Fox News Digital.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
“Cushing’s syndrome is caused by prolonged, high exposure to cortisol, which is your body’s main stress hormone,” he said. “Usually, the excess cortisol is a result of prolonged steroid use. We see this many times with patients who have some autoimmune disorder.”
Balazs said the “key” to Cushing’s syndrome is not just weight gain, but a “specific redistribution” of fat caused by too much cortisol.
Amy Schumer is photographed during a guest interview on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon on Feb. 13, 2024 (left), and later seen walking through midtown New York City on Oct. 28, 2025 (right). (Todd Owyoung/NBC via Getty Images; Raymond Hall/GC Images/Getty Images)
Fat may be driven to the abdomen, chest, upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”) or face, sometimes considered “moon face,” the doctor said.
Cortisol also breaks down protein, which leads to a thinning in the arms and legs. “Weight gain can be tough, involuntary and hard to manage,” Balazs added.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE HEALTH STORIES
Cortisol stimulates “hunger centers” in the brain, raises blood sugar and promotes fat storage, especially deep belly fat, according to the doctor.
Cushing’s syndrome can also cause high blood pressure, bone loss and sometimes type 2 diabetes, per Mayo Clinic.
In addition to weight gain in certain areas, other symptoms may include pink or purple stretch marks on the stomach, hips, thighs, breasts and underarms, as well as acne, slow wound healing, and thin, frail skin that bruises easily.
With Cushing’s syndrome, fat may accumulate in the abdomen, chest, face or upper back (referred to as a “buffalo hump”). (iStock)
Women with Cushing’s syndrome often experience thick, dark hair on the face and body, as well as irregular periods. Symptoms among men can include a lower sex drive, reduced fertility and erectile dysfunction.
Mayo Clinic listed other potential symptoms, including extreme fatigue, muscle weakness, depression, anxiety, irritability, mood swings, trouble with concentration and memory, headache, sleeplessness, skin darkening and stunted growth in children.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
Those with symptoms should contact their doctor immediately, especially if they are taking steroids to treat health issues like asthma, arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease, as these medications can exacerbate the condition.
The Mayo Clinic has reported that the “sooner treatment starts, the better the chances for recovery.”
“I’ve had plastic surgery over the years and I use [Mounjaro],” Schumer stated in a social media post. (George Frey/Bloomberg)
For patients like Schumer, weight loss is typically not the main goal, Balazs noted, but it is a “critical sign” of successful treatment.
“The primary goal is to normalize your high cortisol levels,” he said. “I believe Amy Schumer got treated first for her underlying problem. Once the cortisol is normalized, which is the most important step, there’s a role to use adjunct medications to decrease weight.”
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
Among GLP-1s, Mounjaro is an “excellent choice to decrease deep belly fat and increase insulin sensitivity of cells,” Balazs added.
Fox News Digital’s Stephanie Giang-Paunon contributed to this report.
Fox News Digital reached out to Schumer’s rep requesting comment.
What are Detroit Lions’ NFL playoffs odds? Latest playoff picture
Oakland Airport’s ‘San Francisco’ rebrand has failed to reverse plunging passenger numbers
Dallas, Mesquite police investigate double murder-suicide
Injury Bug for Miami Basketball Gains Another Player Early in the Season
Proposed “perfect” Red Sox trade sees Boston deal Jarren Duran, prospects for $15.5 million two-time All-Star ace
Florida High School Football Rankings: Top 25 teams – Oct. 21
Cleary's 21 help Le Moyne down Central Connecticut State 69-64 in OT
How old is Bo Nix? What to know about Oregon quarterback ahead of 2024 NFL Draft
99th annual Pony Swim held in Virginia
Video: ‘It Didn’t Have to Happen This Way:’ U.Va. Faculty Call for Review of Police Response to Protests
Trump’s election win filled Hamas with ‘fear,’ hostage held like ‘slave’ for 505 days recounts
In Khartoum, exhumation of makeshift graves reawakens families’ grief
Manhunt under way for attacker after two students killed at US university
Video: At Least Two Killed in Shooting at Brown University
FBI ousts reinstated whistleblower over unauthorized media talks, ‘poor judgment’
-
Alaska1 week agoHowling Mat-Su winds leave thousands without power
-
Texas1 week agoTexas Tech football vs BYU live updates, start time, TV channel for Big 12 title
-
Washington5 days agoLIVE UPDATES: Mudslide, road closures across Western Washington
-
Iowa1 week agoMatt Campbell reportedly bringing longtime Iowa State staffer to Penn State as 1st hire
-
Miami, FL1 week agoUrban Meyer, Brady Quinn get in heated exchange during Alabama, Notre Dame, Miami CFP discussion
-
Cleveland, OH1 week agoMan shot, killed at downtown Cleveland nightclub: EMS
-
Iowa1 day agoHow much snow did Iowa get? See Iowa’s latest snowfall totals
-
World7 days ago
Chiefs’ offensive line woes deepen as Wanya Morris exits with knee injury against Texans
