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Updated: Jun 8, 2026
Microarray-based Identification of Individual HERV Loci Expression: Application to Biomarker Discovery in Prostate Cancer
Published on: November 2, 2013
Molecular genetics of prostate cancer: new prospects for old challenges
Michael M Shen1, Cory Abate-Shen
1Department of Medicine, Columbia University Medical Center, New York, New York 10032, USA. mshen@columbia.edu
Abstract:
Despite much recent progress, prostate cancer continues to represent a major cause of cancer-related mortality and morbidity in men. Since early studies on the role of the androgen receptor that led to the advent of androgen deprivation therapy in the 1940s, there has long been intensive interest in the basic mechanisms underlying prostate cancer initiation and progression, as well as the potential to target these processes for therapeutic intervention. Here, we present an overview of major themes in prostate cancer research, focusing on current knowledge of principal events in cancer initiation and progression. We discuss recent advances, including new insights into the mechanisms of castration resistance, identification of stem cells and tumor-initiating cells, and development of mouse models for preclinical evaluation of novel therapuetics. Overall, we highlight the tremendous research progress made in recent years, and underscore the challenges that lie ahead.
Insights
Prostate cancer remains a significant health concern. Research is advancing our understanding of its progression, including castration resistance and stem cell roles, to develop new treatments.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Urology
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality in men.
- Androgen deprivation therapy has been a cornerstone treatment since the 1940s.
- Intensive research focuses on understanding prostate cancer initiation and progression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an overview of major themes in prostate cancer research.
- To highlight recent advances in understanding cancer mechanisms.
- To discuss potential therapeutic targets.
Main Methods:
- Review of current knowledge on prostate cancer initiation and progression.
- Discussion of recent research findings.
- Focus on mechanisms of castration resistance and stem cell identification.
Main Results:
- Significant progress has been made in understanding prostate cancer.
- New insights into castration resistance mechanisms have emerged.
- Development of mouse models aids preclinical evaluation of therapies.
Conclusions:
- Prostate cancer research has seen tremendous progress.
- Challenges remain in fully understanding and treating the disease.
- Continued research is crucial for developing novel therapeutics.
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