Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 11, 2026
An Orthotopic Murine Model of Human Prostate Cancer Metastasis
Published on: September 18, 2013
5-Alpha-reductase inhibition and prostate cancer prevention
O W Brawley1, L G Ford, I Thompson
1Division of Cancer Prevention and Control, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
Abstract:
Studies of prostate biology support the concept that dihydrotestosterone is the principal androgen responsible for normal and hyperplastic growth of the prostate gland. Cancer is a process of malignant transformation evolving over time, involving cellular growth and division. Therefore, an altered endocrine state, such as suppression of dihydrotestosterone activity, may have an impact on prostate cells inhibiting carcinogenic transformation. In vitro and in vivo preclinical observations support this hypothesis. A placebo-controlled randomized trial using finasteride, an inhibitor of the enzyme that converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone, is planned. The endpoint of this trial will be reduction of prostate cancer incidence.
Insights
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) drives prostate growth and cancer. Inhibiting DHT with finasteride may prevent prostate cancer development, as suggested by preclinical studies. A clinical trial will test this hypothesis by measuring cancer incidence.
Area of Science:
- Urology
- Endocrinology
- Oncology
Background:
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the primary androgen influencing prostate gland growth and hyperplasia.
- Prostate cancer involves cellular transformation, growth, and division over time.
- Altering endocrine states, specifically DHT activity, may inhibit prostate carcinogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of suppressing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) activity to inhibit prostate cancer development.
- To evaluate the efficacy of finasteride in reducing prostate cancer incidence.
Main Methods:
- Preclinical in vitro and in vivo studies support the hypothesis.
- A planned placebo-controlled randomized trial will utilize finasteride.
- The trial's primary endpoint is the reduction in prostate cancer incidence.
Main Results:
- Preclinical data suggest that inhibiting DHT may prevent malignant transformation.
- Further clinical data are pending from the planned randomized trial.
Conclusions:
- DHT suppression is a potential strategy for prostate cancer prevention.
- Finasteride, a DHT synthesis inhibitor, is being investigated for its role in reducing prostate cancer incidence.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Adrenergic Antagonists: Pharmacological Actions of ɑ-Receptor Blockers
α1-blockers: These drugs inhibit α1-adrenoceptors on smooth muscle cells, resulting in vasodilation. This vasodilation lowers blood pressure, making α1-blockers valuable in treating hypertension. Additionally, α1-blockers effectively address urinary obstruction...
01:28Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors
Among the PDE5 inhibitors, sildenafil (Revatio) stands out as a competitive and selective inhibitor. It operates by elevating cellular levels of cGMP and augmenting signaling through the cGMP-PKG pathway, promoting vasodilation. Upon oral...
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...