The present disclosure relates to compositions and methods for the diagnosis and treatment or prevention of cancers, particularly cancers that exhibit elevated expression of SLC26A2, such as certain ovarian, endometrial, brain, bone, and
lung cancers, as well as
melanoma. A previously identified
vanadium-containing compound, bis(maltolato)oxovanadium(IV) (BMOV), specifically provided for killing of SLC26A2 expressing
cancer cells in a SLC26A2-
dependent manner. The instant disclosure therefore provides for selecting and / or administering BMOV and related
vanadium-containing compounds as a therapeutic agent to target a
cancer cell and / or subject having or at risk of developing a
cancer. Methods and compositions for therapies that include such compounds are also provided.