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Updated: May 23, 2026

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Androgens, diabetes and prostate cancer
Mathis Grossmann1, Gary Wittert
1Department of Medicine Austin Health, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia.
Metabolic disorders like obesity and diabetes impact prostate cancer (PCa) risk and aggressiveness. Obesity may worsen PCa, while long-standing diabetes might offer protection, possibly due to hormonal changes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Metabolic disorders, including obesity and diabetes, are increasingly recognized as significant modulators of prostate cancer (PCa) risk and progression.
- Observational and experimental studies suggest complex interactions between metabolic health, sex hormones, and PCa development.
- Obesity is linked to increased PCa aggressiveness and poorer outcomes, while long-standing diabetes may paradoxically reduce PCa incidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the epidemiological and mechanistic evidence on the interplay between metabolic conditions, sex steroids, and prostate cancer.
- To elucidate the dual role of metabolic disorders in PCa risk and aggressiveness.
- To discuss the metabolic consequences of androgen deprivation therapy in PCa management.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing epidemiological data on metabolic disorders and PCa.
- Analysis of experimental studies investigating mechanistic links.
- Examination of hormonal pathways, including insulin, IGF1, and androgens.
- Assessment of the metabolic impact of androgen deprivation therapy.
Main Results:
- Obesity and associated insulin excess correlate with increased PCa aggressiveness and adverse outcomes.
- Long-standing diabetes, potentially due to insulin depletion and reduced IGF1 signaling, may be protective against PCa development.
- Both obesity and diabetes are associated with altered androgen levels, complicating the understanding of their individual roles.
Conclusions:
- Metabolic factors and androgens interact through mechanisms like inflammation, adipokine signaling, fatty acid metabolism, and IGF signaling to influence prostate carcinogenesis.
- The complex relationship between metabolic status and androgens necessitates careful consideration in PCa risk assessment and treatment.
- Adverse metabolic effects of androgen deprivation therapy require evaluation for risk-benefit assessment in prostate cancer management.
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