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Published on: May 27, 2021

A gene expression profiling approach assessing celecoxib in a randomized controlled trial in prostate cancer

P Sooriakumaran1, P Macanas-Pirard, G Bucca

  • 1Room 14AY04, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey GU2 7XH, UK.

Cancer Genomics & Proteomics
|May 20, 2009
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This pilot study investigated celecoxib in prostate cancer patients, finding it altered gene expression to promote apoptosis and tumor suppressor functions. Further trials are warranted for this COX-2 inhibitor in prostate cancer treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Molecular Biology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Pilot study on COX-2 inhibitor celecoxib in newly diagnosed prostate cancer.
  • Investigated neo-adjuvant treatment setting using DNA microarray analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effect of celecoxib on gene expression in prostate cancer patients.
  • To assess potential mechanisms of action, including apoptosis and tumor suppressor functions.

Main Methods:

  • Single-blinded, randomized controlled phase II trial of celecoxib versus placebo.
  • 28-day presurgical treatment prior to radical prostatectomy.
  • cDNA microarray and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis of prostate cancer biopsies.

Main Results:

  • Celecoxib treatment led to differential gene expression.
  • 24 genes were up-regulated and 4 genes down-regulated.
  • Observed gene changes associated with apoptosis (e.g., survivin), antioxidant processes, and tumor suppression (e.g., p73, cyclin B1).

Conclusions:

  • Perioperative celecoxib (400 mg b.i.d. for 4 weeks) altered gene expression in prostate cancer.
  • Changes were consistent with enhanced apoptosis and tumor suppressor function.
  • Encouraging data support further clinical trials of celecoxib in prostate cancer.

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