The purpose of this (Stanford University) research is to gain an understanding of the vitamin D-androgen interaction in prostate cancer. Calcitriol, the active hormonal form of vitamin D, induces androgen receptors (AR) in prostate cells. Major findings, thus far, involve studies in two areas. First, the ability of vitamin D and retinoids to regulate AR levels in LNCaP human prostate cancer cells. These studies have led to a publication which is included in the report's Appendix. The major conclusion is that the growth inhibitory activity of vitamin D and retinoid hormones is androgen-dependent, and the activity can be blocked by the AR antagonist, Casodex.
Second, is a study of prostate cancer cells derived from a bone metastasis in a patient whose prostate cancer had progressed to become androgen independent. The cells have a double mutation in the AR, and further study of these cells is in progress, in an attempt to determine the nature of the changes that lead to androgen-independence. The significance of this work is that it will increase our understanding of factors that stimulate prostate cancer growth. The study will attempt to develop mechanisms to inhibit the growth and progression of prostate cancer.
(Order this LIFE SCIENCES & BIOTECHNOLOGY UPDATE reviewed report from InfoTeam Inc., P.O. Box 15640, Plantation, FL 33318-5640; Phone (954) 473-9560, Fax (954) 473-0544: Report No. L20010216; 2000, 30 pp. Price: $99.00, prepaid.)
COPYRIGHT 2001 Merton Allen Associates
COPYRIGHT 2001 Gale Group
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