Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Sequencing Small Non-coding RNA from Formalin-fixed Tissues and Serum-derived Exosomes from Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer Patients
Published on: November 19, 2019
The application of epigenetic modifiers on the treatment of prostate and bladder cancer
Zhengwang Zhang1, Jose Karam, Eugene Frenkel
1Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX 75390-9110, USA.
Abstract:
Prostate cancer and transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) of bladder are the 2 most common malignancies in the male adult urogenital system. Epigenetic gene silencing, particularly tumor suppressor genes, has become a new area of cancer research. Agents such as deoxyribonucleic acid methyltransferase inhibitors or histone deacetylase inhibitors are epigenetic modifiers that can restore gene expression and alter the malignant phenotype of cancer. They provide a new therapeutic avenue for prostate cancer and TCC. It is also likely that combination regimens using epigenetic modifiers with other classes of agents may have higher therapeutic efficacy for prostate cancer and TCC, especially metastatic and/or refractory cases. We review current knowledge of epigenetic event in prostate cancer and TCC, and discuss the possible clinical implications for these 2 diseases.
Insights
Epigenetic gene silencing impacts prostate cancer and bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC). Epigenetic modifiers offer new therapeutic strategies, potentially enhancing treatments for advanced or refractory cases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
- Urogenital Malignancies
Background:
- Prostate cancer and transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) are common male urogenital system cancers.
- Epigenetic gene silencing, especially of tumor suppressor genes, is a key area in cancer research.
- Epigenetic alterations play a significant role in the development and progression of these malignancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge of epigenetic events in prostate cancer and TCC.
- To discuss the potential clinical implications of epigenetic modifications in these cancers.
- To explore novel therapeutic avenues targeting epigenetic pathways.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on epigenetic alterations in prostate cancer and TCC.
- Analysis of the role of epigenetic modifiers like DNA methyltransferase and histone deacetylase inhibitors.
- Discussion of potential combination therapies involving epigenetic agents.
Main Results:
- Epigenetic silencing contributes to the pathogenesis of prostate cancer and TCC.
- Epigenetic modifiers can restore gene expression and modify cancer cell phenotype.
- Combination regimens with epigenetic modifiers may improve outcomes for refractory or metastatic disease.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic modifications represent a promising therapeutic target for prostate cancer and TCC.
- Epigenetic modifiers offer a new treatment modality for these urogenital malignancies.
- Further research into combination therapies holds potential for improving patient outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Epigenetic Regulation
X-chromosome...
Epigenetic Regulation
Targeted Cancer Therapies
There are several types of targeted therapies against specific...
Pharmacogenetics of Drug Targets: β₂-Adrenergic Receptors, Apo E, Thymidylate Synthase
Mitogens and the Cell Cycle
