Treating prostate cancer: a rationale for targeting local oestrogens

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Endocrinology
• Oncology

Background:

• Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in men, while benign prostatic hyperplasia is common in aging men.
• Oestrogen's role in prostate cancer development is complex, yet it presents a potential therapeutic target.
• Understanding oestrogen's specific functions in the prostate is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Approach:

• This perspective proposes a targeted therapeutic strategy for prostate diseases.
• The approach involves using selective oestrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs).
• SERMs are to be used in conjunction with current androgen-ablation therapy.

Key Points:

• Oestrogen signaling pathways are implicated in both prostate cancer and benign prostatic hyperplasia.
• Selective oestrogen-receptor modulators (SERMs) offer tissue-specific oestrogen modulation.
• Combining SERMs with androgen-ablation therapy may provide a synergistic effect for prostate disease management.

Conclusions:

• A targeted approach using SERMs alongside androgen-ablation therapy is a promising strategy for treating prostate diseases.
• This combined therapy could offer improved efficacy and reduced side effects compared to current treatments.
• Further research into the precise mechanisms of oestrogen action in the prostate is warranted to optimize therapeutic outcomes.