Precision targeting in prostate cancer: Mechanistic drivers and the evolving clinical pipeline

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Prostate cancer (PC) is a prevalent malignancy in males globally, posing significant therapeutic challenges.
• Understanding the molecular pathways driving PC development and progression is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review key molecular pathways implicated in prostate cancer.
• To outline current and investigational medicinal agents targeting these pathways.
• To provide integrated mechanistic insights for advancing PC drug development.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of molecular pathways in prostate cancer.
• Analysis of medicinal agents targeting these pathways in clinical practice and trials.
• Synthesis of mechanistic insights and translational progress.

Main Results:

• Identified key pathways including androgen receptor signalling, PSMA, DNA repair, neuroendocrine differentiation, metabolic reprogramming, Wnt/β-catenin, epigenetics, and stress response.
• Summarized therapeutic agents, their mechanisms, outcomes, and clinical status.
• Highlighted integrated mechanistic insights and translational relevance.

Conclusions:

• The review provides a framework for rational drug design.
• It supports the development of next-generation therapies for enhanced prostate cancer management.
• Integrated understanding of pathways and therapies is key to overcoming treatment challenges.