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Updated: Jun 14, 2025

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Prostate cancer and pollution: Dangerous connections.
Sébastien Magnifico1, Charlotte Hinault-Boyer2, Frédéric Bost3
1Université Nice Côte d'Azur, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Nice, Département d'Endocrinologie, Diabétologie et Médecine de la Reproduction, Hôpital de l'Archet 2, Nice, France; Université Nice Côte d'Azur, Inserm U1065, C3M (Centre Méditerranéen de Médecine Moléculaire), équipe 5 « Cancer, métabolisme et environnement », Nice, France.
Exposure to endocrine disruptors, like chlordecone, is linked to increased prostate cancer risk, particularly in occupational settings. Animal and in vitro studies further support this connection, highlighting early life exposure and hormonal pathways.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a significant hormone-dependent cancer in men.
- Increasing prevalence raises concerns about environmental and occupational risk factors.
- Endocrine disruptors are suspected contributors to prostate cancer development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review available data linking endocrine disruptor exposure to prostate cancer risk.
- To explore evidence from epidemiological, animal, and in vitro studies.
- To understand the mechanisms of endocrine disruptors in prostate cancer promotion.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological studies, focusing on occupational exposures.
- Analysis of data from animal models (murine models) examining early life exposure.
- Examination of in vitro studies investigating cellular mechanisms and signaling pathways.
Main Results:
- Occupational exposure, particularly to chlordecone in agricultural settings, shows a probable/possible link to increased prostate cancer risk.
- Murine models demonstrate that fetal/neonatal exposure can lead to adult prostate cancer.
- In vitro models identify involvement of androgen (AR) and estrogen (ER) receptors and novel signaling pathways in tumor promotion.
Conclusions:
- Evidence suggests a link between endocrine disruptor exposure and prostate cancer.
- Early life exposure and specific chemicals like chlordecone are key concerns.
- Further research is needed to clarify epidemiological links and mechanisms.
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