Researchers have identified a gene that could play a key role in the transition to a more aggressive, treatment-resistant type of prostate cancer, according to a recent study published by Duan et al in the Journal of Clinical Investigation. The findings indicated that the gene may be indirectly targeted with an existing class of drugs, representing a potential treatment strategy among patients with aggressive subtypes of prostate cancer.
Background
Previous studies have demonstrated that prostate cancer cells undergo lineage plasticity, a process in which they become resistant to treatment via the androgen receptor, a key disease target. This transition away from dependence on the androgen receptor is a continuum, with cancer cells taking on alternate identities from what is typical in most prostate cancer cases…