Growth Inhibitory and Stimulatory Signals in Prostate Cancer
Abstract
Substantial progress has been made by the DOD funded Vanderbilt Prostate Cancer Center (VPCC) to evaluate the growth stimulator and growth inhibitory pathways in the development of prostate cancer. The VPCC research group has expanded both in personnel and disciplinary approaches to study prostate cancer. A number of investigators are now working on existing and developing new mouse models for prostate cancer. In addition the researchers have developed new funding to start translational programs on the treatment of prostate cancer. The established of the VPCC by the DOD funding has made this possible. The VPCC will continue to exist and is pursuing new sources of funding to maintain and expand the existing program. The research program funded has established that a loss of the growth inhibitory signal (TGFbeta) in the prostate will increase prostatic metastatic tumor burden. We have been surprised to discover that the loss of this inhibitory signal process by the stromal cells rather then the epithelial cells are key to this process. Further, we have shown that Overexpression of the growth stimulatory signal (TGFalpha) plus loss the inhibitory signal gives a selective advantage to the prostate tumor to survive in the face of androgen ablation therapy. Although funding of this Center is ending, the research stated has now expanded into other programs with support from both the DOD and NIH which will allow the programs to continue.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2003
- Accession Number
- ADA418771
Entities
People
- Robert J. Matusik
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University Medical Center