Recent advances in basic research on prostate cancer: Where we are heading?

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard treatment for advanced prostate cancer (PCa).
• Castration-resistant PCa, including neuroendocrine variants, poses a significant clinical challenge.
• Novel diagnostic and therapeutic strategies are essential for effective PCa management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent basic research in prostate cancer (PCa).
• To focus on androgen receptor (AR) signaling pathways and tumor microenvironments.
• To highlight advancements critical for precision medicine and novel therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current knowledge on AR signaling mechanisms, coactivators, and chromatin regulation.
• Analysis of genomic alterations and liquid biopsy applications for PCa monitoring.
• Examination of the PCa tumor microenvironment, including immunosuppression and immunotherapy potential.
• Application of advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics.

Main Results:

• Genomic analyses identify critical mutations and copy number alterations for precision medicine.
• Liquid biopsy offers real-time tumor monitoring via circulating tumor DNA and extracellular vesicles.
• The tumor microenvironment exhibits an immunosuppressive landscape, suggesting combination therapy potential.
• Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptomics reveal cellular heterogeneity and interactions.

Conclusions:

• Integrating research on AR signaling and tumor microenvironment is crucial for understanding PCa progression.
• Personalized medicine and adaptive treatment strategies are vital for combating advanced PCa.
• Advanced techniques provide new insights into PCa biology and therapeutic targets.