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Updated: Aug 19, 2026

An Orthotopic Murine Model of Human Prostate Cancer Metastasis
06:48

An Orthotopic Murine Model of Human Prostate Cancer Metastasis

Published on: September 18, 2013

A novel human G protein-coupled receptor is over-expressed in prostate cancer

Raphael B Parmigiani1, Geraldo S Magalhães, Pedro A F Galante

  • 1Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, Rua Professor Antonio Prudente, 109, 4th floor, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.

Genetics and Molecular Research : GMR
|February 3, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Researchers identified a novel G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR). This new receptor is expressed in the nervous system, testis, and notably, prostate cancer, suggesting its potential as a disease marker.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular Biology
  • Genomics
  • Receptor Biology

Background:

  • G protein-coupled receptors (GPCRs) are crucial for numerous physiological functions.
  • The GPCR superfamily is expanding with new members continually being identified.
  • Human genome sequence databases facilitate the discovery of novel receptor genes.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify and characterize novel members of the GPCR superfamily.
  • To investigate the gene expression patterns of newly discovered GPCRs.
  • To explore the potential of a novel GPCR as a biomarker for specific diseases, particularly cancer.

Main Methods:

  • Bioinformatic analysis of human genome sequence databases.
  • Amino acid sequence comparison to identify novel GPCRs.
  • Gene expression profiling in normal and tumor tissues using techniques like RT-PCR or in situ hybridization (implied).

Main Results:

  • Identification of a novel GPCR with no significant sequence homology to known GPCRs.
  • Restricted gene expression observed in the nervous system and testis in normal tissues.
  • Detected gene expression in several tumor types, with notable presence in prostate cancer.

Conclusions:

  • A novel GPCR has been identified, expanding the known GPCR repertoire.
  • The specific expression pattern suggests a role in neurological and reproductive functions.
  • The elevated expression in prostate cancer indicates its potential as a diagnostic or prognostic biomarker for the disease.

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