INOVATe: A decade of progress for women with ovarian cancer

This month marks the completion of the final report for INOVATe, a major ten-year program led by Professor Anna DeFazio AM. The initiative has delivered real-time molecular profiling for ovarian cancer patients across NSW, helping match women with targeted treatments and clinical trials.

Across the decade, INOVATe has achieved:

• Almost 900 patients recruited
• More than 4,000 molecular tests completed, identifying key cancer driving genes in 92% of cases
• Discovery of potential drug targetable features in over half (52%) of patients
• Creation of new ovarian cancer cell lines and long-term research resources

The program brought together over 80 collaborators across NSW hospitals, research institutes, and universities, supported by Cancer Council NSW, Cancer Institute NSW, the University of Sydney and generous WIMR donors.  

While treatments have improved over the past decade, Professor DeFazio emphasises that much more work is still needed to provide better outcomes for all women with ovarian cancer. 

The success of INOVATe shows what’s possible when science, collaboration, and community support come together. But it also highlights the continued urgency for more research, more innovation and more investment in one of the deadliest cancers affecting women. 

WIMR remains deeply committed to this work, harnessing advanced molecular tools, supporting exceptional women scientists, and striving every day for a future where ovarian cancer is detected earlier, treated more effectively and ultimately survivable for all.

To learn more click here ->

If you would like to donate to Anna’s work in ovarian cancer please click here ->

or contact kim.hill@wimr.org.au – Director of Development & Engagement