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Modulating testosterone stimulated prostate growth by phenethyl isothiocyanate via Sp1 and androgen receptor

Anastasia A Beklemisheva1, Jingyang Feng, Yunshin Albert Yeh

  • 1Department of Medicine, New York Medical College, Valhalla, New York 10595, USA.

The Prostate
|April 14, 2007
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC), found in cruciferous vegetables, was studied for its effects on prostate growth. PEITC effectively reduced testosterone-induced prostate enlargement and hyperplasia in rats by inhibiting key growth pathways.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Endocrinology
  • Nutritional Science

Background:

  • Prostate growth, including benign hyperplasia, is influenced by androgens.
  • Phenethyl isothiocyanate (PEITC) is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the effects of PEITC on androgen-influenced prostate growth.
  • To determine PEITC's potential as a regulator for hormone-dependent prostate growth.

Main Methods:

  • Rats were administered cyproterone acetate and testosterone.
  • Rats received either PEITC or a vehicle control concurrently.
  • Prostate growth was compared between treated and untreated groups.

Main Results:

  • Testosterone significantly increased prostate mass and hyperplasia.
  • PEITC administration counteracted testosterone's effects, reducing prostate mass and hyperplasia to baseline levels.
  • PEITC inhibited the androgen receptor (AR) by down-regulating Sp1 expression and binding, and altered cell cycle regulators.

Conclusions:

  • PEITC modulates testosterone-driven prostate growth by inhibiting Sp1, thereby down-regulating AR and proliferation.
  • Dietary PEITC from cruciferous vegetables may serve as a natural regulator for hormone-dependent prostate growth.

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