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Published on: June 7, 2016
Role of the renin-angiotensin system in prostate cancer
1University of Melbourne, Department of Medicine, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Abstract:
Prostate cancer is highly prevalent in Western society, and its early stages can be controlled by androgen ablation therapy. However, the cancer eventually regresses to an androgen-independent state for which there is no effective treatment. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), in particular the octapeptide angiotensin II, is now recognised to have important effects on growth factor signalling and cell growth in addition to its well known actions on blood pressure, fluid homeostasis and electrolyte balance. All components of the RAS have been recently identified in the prostate, consistent with the expression of a local RAS system in this tissue. This review focuses on the role of the RAS in the prostate, and the possibility that this pathway may be a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of prostate cancer and other prostatic diseases.
Insights
Prostate cancer can become resistant to androgen ablation therapy. The renin-angiotensin system (RAS) may offer a new therapeutic target for advanced prostate cancer and other prostatic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Urology
Background:
- Prostate cancer is common, with early stages treatable by androgen ablation therapy.
- Advanced prostate cancer becomes androgen-independent, lacking effective treatments.
- The renin-angiotensin system (RAS), including angiotensin II, influences cell growth and signaling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the RAS in the prostate.
- To explore the potential of targeting the RAS for prostate cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on RAS components in the prostate.
- Analysis of RAS involvement in prostate cancer progression.
Main Results:
- All RAS components are present in the prostate, indicating a local RAS.
- RAS influences growth factor signaling and cell growth relevant to prostate tissue.
Conclusions:
- The local RAS in the prostate is a potential therapeutic target.
- Targeting the RAS may offer new treatment strategies for prostate cancer and other prostatic diseases.
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