[Current status of castration resistant prostate cancer basic research].

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Genetics

Context:

• Recent advancements in anti-androgen therapies and CYP-17 inhibitors have renewed focus on androgen signaling in castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).
• Understanding the molecular mechanisms driving CRPC is crucial for developing effective treatments.

Purpose:

• To review classical and emerging topics in the basic research of castration-resistant prostate cancer.
• To highlight key molecular alterations and regulatory pathways involved in CRPC development.

Summary:

• Castration resistance in prostate cancer is driven by androgen receptor (AR) amplification, mutations, and splicing variants leading to ligand-independent activation.
• Novel AR regulation mechanisms include chromosomal rearrangements involving FOXA and the prevalent TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion.
• Non-coding microRNAs (miRNAs) also play a significant role in AR-mediated oncogenic pathways in CRPC.

Impact:

• This review provides a comprehensive overview of current research frontiers in CRPC.
• It aids researchers in understanding the complex molecular landscape of CRPC.
• Informs the development of targeted therapies for advanced prostate cancer.