An Analysis of Rho-PKN Signaling in Prostate Cancer Using Drosophila Genetics
Abstract
The mechanisms underlying the development and progression of prostate cancer are poorly understood. In addition there are few markers available for the diagnosis of this disease. In an attempt to shed light on mechanisms of prostate cancer progression and identify novel markers, I am focusing my research on protein kinase N (PKN). This protein has been implicated in prostate cancer: levels of PKN protein are upregulated in prostate cancer, PKN binds the androgen receptor (a key protein in prostate cancer progression) and promotes androgen receptor-dependent transcription. The specific aims of my project are to investigate the involvement of PKN family proteins in prostate cancer, and to identify and characterize novel components in the PKN signaling pathway. To fulfill these aims I am attempting to knock down expression of PKN and the closely related protein kinase C related kinase 2 in cell lines and look at the effects of knock down on cellular processes involved in tumorigenesis. In addition, I am using the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster as a tool to identify new proteins in the PKN signaling pathway, since the fly has a well-conserved PKN gene and many signaling pathways operating in cancer are conserved between flies and humans.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 2005
- Accession Number
- ADA434481
Entities
People
- Martha E. Betson
Organizations
- Massachusetts General Hospital