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Updated: Jun 17, 2025

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Promising therapy for neuroendocrine prostate cancer: current status and future directions
Xin Fei1, Jia-Wei Xue1,2, Ji-Zhongrong Wu1,3
1Health Science Center, Ningbo University, Ningbo, Zhejiang, China.
Abstract:
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is a highly aggressive variant of castration-resistant prostate cancer. It is characterized by low or no expression of the androgen receptor (AR), activation of AR-independent signaling, and increased neuroendocrine phenotype. Most of NEPC is induced by treatment of androgen deprivation therapy and androgen receptor pathway inhibitors (ARPIs). Currently, the treatment of NEPC follows the treatment strategy for small-cell lung cancer, lacking effective drugs and specific treatment options. This review summarizes potential novel targets and therapies for NEPC treatment, including epigenetic regulators (zeste homolog 2 inhibitors, lysine-specific demethylase 1 inhibitors), aurora kinase A inhibitors, poly-ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitors, delta-like ligand 3 targeted therapies, a combination of immunotherapies, etc. Other promising targets and future directions are also discussed in this review. These novel targets and therapies may provide new opportunities for the treatment of NEPC.
Insights
Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is an aggressive cancer resistant to standard treatments. This review highlights novel therapeutic targets and strategies, offering new hope for patients with this challenging condition.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Urology
Background:
- Neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC) is an aggressive subtype of castration-resistant prostate cancer.
- NEPC is characterized by low androgen receptor (AR) expression and AR-independent signaling.
- Treatment-induced NEPC often arises from androgen deprivation therapy and AR pathway inhibitors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review emerging therapeutic targets for NEPC.
- To discuss novel treatment strategies for NEPC.
- To explore future directions in NEPC research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current research on NEPC.
- Summary of potential novel therapeutic targets and agents.
- Discussion of emerging treatment modalities.
Main Results:
- Identified novel targets including epigenetic regulators (EZH2, LSD1 inhibitors), Aurora Kinase A inhibitors, PARP inhibitors, and DLL3-targeted therapies.
- Highlighted the potential of combination immunotherapies for NEPC.
- Discussed other promising targets and future research avenues.
Conclusions:
- Novel therapeutic targets and strategies show promise for NEPC treatment.
- Targeted therapies and immunotherapies may offer new opportunities for NEPC patients.
- Further research is needed to develop effective treatments for NEPC.
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