Role of PARP inhibitors in BRCA-related malignancies

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors target an important enzyme involved in DNA repair. The agents olaparib, rucaparib, and niraparib are currently indicated for ovarian, fallopian tube, and primary peritoneal cancers. Olaparib is also indicated for breast cancer. PARP inhibitors have demonstrated statistically significant improvements in progression-free survival. Most adverse effects have been related to the gastrointestinal tract and the blood. Major limitations to the long-term use of PARP inhibitors include the development of bone marrow disorders and drug resistance. There are several more PARP inhibitors and combination strategies under investigation for solid and hematologic malignancies.