Investigation of the AKT/PKB Kinase in the Development of Hormone-Independent Prostate Cancer
Abstract
Our laboratory has been interested in the role of Akt in the development of hormoneindependent cancers. Using a breast cancer cell model, we previously demonstrated that tumors with a constitutively active Akt are resistant to anti-hormone therapy. In this study we have expanded upon our preliminary observations in the breast model into in vitro prostate cancer models to determine the molecular and biological mechanisms underlying these findings. In our first year of this study, we found that treatment with an Akt inhibitor prevented the progression of LNCaP cells to a state of androgen-independence. The results of these studies could have a significant impact on clinical approaches for the treatment of recurrent prostate cancer. Currently, progression of prostate cancer to androgen independence remains the primary obstacle to improved survival with this disease. In order to improve overall survival, novel treatment strategies that are based upon specific molecular mechanisms that prolong the androgen-dependent state and that are useful for androgen-independent disease need to be identified. The results of our studies suggest that targeting the Akt pathway may provide such a strategy, resulting in increased survival among patients with recurrent disease.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA431635
Entities
People
- Linda A. Degraffenried
Organizations
- University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio