Genistein Programming Against Prostate Cancer
Abstract
The purpose of this research is to develop a rodent prostate cancer model and to investigate the potential of genistein to suppress the development of this cancer. We have hypothesized that exposure to genistein, a component of soy, during early critical periods of development will modulate development of hormone responsive target organs and cell differentiation. We further hypothesized that these developmental modifications set the program for later response to hormonally-active effectors. We believe that programming events play a significant role in determining susceptibility for prostate cancer. Starting at conception, rats were exposed to 0, 25- and 250 mg genistein/kg AlN-76A diet. Seven week old male offspring were injected orthotopically into the dorsolateral prostate with the carcinogen, N-methylnitrosurea (NMU), for the induction of adenocarcinomas which takes 12 months. Animals are being palpated on a weekly basis for tumors (to be continued in the second year). Also, we have measured, in 187 day old rats exposed +/- genistein and to NMU, biomarkers in the dorsolateral prostate. mRNA and protein levels of EGF-receptor and androgen receptor were not altered. Understanding the in vivo mechanism of genistein action should allow soy, genistein, or potent genistein analogues to be used against prostate cancer in humans.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA385695
Entities
People
- Coral A. Lamartiniere
Organizations
- University of Alabama