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Published on: March 6, 2018
Androgen Deprivation Therapy for Prostate Cancer: Focus on Cognitive Function and Mood.
Allison B Reiss1, Shelly Gulkarov1, Aaron Pinkhasov2
1Department of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute, NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY 11501, USA.
Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) for prostate cancer may impact cognitive function and mood. Shared genes between ADT patients and Alzheimer's patients suggest a potential link warranting further investigation.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Neurology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in men.
- Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a primary treatment for metastatic prostate cancer.
- ADT involves anti-androgen drugs that may affect cognitive function, mood, and quality of life.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of ADT on cognitive function, mood, and quality of life.
- To analyze the relationship between ADT and Alzheimer's disease.
- To explore shared genetic mechanisms between ADT and Alzheimer's disease.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on ADT and its effects.
- Comparative analysis of gene expression in prostate cancer patients on ADT and Alzheimer's patients.
- Description of neurocognitive testing for evaluating cognitive ability in prostate cancer patients.
Main Results:
- ADT may lead to reduced white matter integrity and impact hypothalamic functions.
- Over 30 shared genes were identified between prostate cancer patients on ADT and Alzheimer's patients.
- ADT is associated with potential adverse effects on cognition, mood, and quality of life.
Conclusions:
- ADT may have significant physiological effects impacting cognitive function and mood.
- Shared genetic factors suggest a potential mechanistic link between ADT and Alzheimer's disease.
- Further research is needed to understand the relationship between hormonal changes, cognitive deficits, and mood disturbances.
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