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Molecular basis of co-targeting prostate tumor and stroma
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Genetics, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville 22908, USA.
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer death in Northern American men. The lethal phenotypes of human prostate cancer are characterized by progression to androgen-independence (Al) and a propensity to form osseous metastases. In approximately 80% of cases, prostate cancer colonizes bone and elicits a characteristic osteoblastic reaction. The bone metastases are initially sensitive to androgen deprivation treatments, but with time the cancer will eventually progress into an Al stage for which there is currently no effective treatment. Once initial hormonal therapy has failed, median survival of prostate cancer patients with bone metastases is less than 1 year (Tu et al. [2001] Lancet 357:336-341). Novel therapeutic and preventive strategies are needed to decrease morbidity and mortality of this disease.
Insights
Prostate cancer often spreads to bone and becomes resistant to treatment. New therapies are urgently needed to improve survival for men with advanced prostate cancer and bone metastases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Metastasis
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a major cause of cancer death in North America.
- Lethal prostate cancer involves progression to androgen-independence and bone metastasis.
- Bone metastases in prostate cancer cause osteoblastic reactions and are initially treatment-sensitive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for novel therapeutic and preventive strategies.
- To address the challenges posed by androgen-independent prostate cancer with bone metastases.
Main Methods:
- This study reviews existing literature on prostate cancer progression and bone metastasis.
- Analysis focuses on treatment resistance and survival outcomes.
Main Results:
- Prostate cancer commonly metastasizes to bone in about 80% of cases.
- Bone metastases initially respond to androgen deprivation but progress to an androgen-independent state.
- Survival is less than 1 year after hormonal therapy failure in patients with bone metastases.
Conclusions:
- Effective treatments for androgen-independent prostate cancer with bone metastases are lacking.
- There is a significant need for novel therapeutic and preventive strategies to reduce prostate cancer mortality and morbidity.