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Updated: May 17, 2026

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Targeting the androgen receptor
Terence W Friedlander1, Charles J Ryan
1Division of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of California, San Francisco, CA 94143, USA. terence.friedlander@ucsf.edu
Abstract:
Androgen receptor (AR)-mediated signaling is critical to the growth and survival of prostate cancer. Although medical castration and antiandrogen therapy can decrease AR activity and lower PSA, castration resistance eventually develops. Recent work exploring the molecular structure and evolution of AR in response to hormonal therapies has revealed novel mechanisms of progression of castration-resistant prostate cancer and yielded new targets for drug development. This review focuses on understanding the mechanisms of persistent AR signaling in the castrate environment, and highlights new therapies either currently available or in clinical trials, including androgen synthesis inhibitors and novel direct AR inhibitors.
Insights
Prostate cancer relies on androgen receptor (AR) signaling. New therapies target persistent AR signaling and resistance mechanisms in castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Molecular Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Androgen receptor (AR) signaling is crucial for prostate cancer growth and survival.
- Medical castration and antiandrogen therapies reduce AR activity but often lead to castration resistance.
- Understanding AR's evolution under hormonal therapy is key to overcoming resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review mechanisms of persistent AR signaling in the castrate environment.
- To highlight emerging and clinical-stage therapies for castration-resistant prostate cancer.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular mechanisms of AR signaling in prostate cancer.
- Analysis of current and investigational therapeutic strategies targeting AR.
Main Results:
- Novel mechanisms of castration-resistant prostate cancer progression driven by AR have been identified.
- New drug targets for AR signaling have emerged from structural and evolutionary studies.
- Androgen synthesis inhibitors and direct AR inhibitors show promise.
Conclusions:
- Persistent AR signaling is a key driver of castration-resistant prostate cancer.
- Novel therapeutic agents targeting AR are advancing treatment options.
- Further research into AR mechanisms will yield more effective therapies.
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