Researchers at the University of California, San Francisco have discovered a new therapy that may be effective in treating treatment-resistant prostate cancer. The therapy involves using a combination of drugs to target a specific protein that is important for the growth and survival of prostate cancer cells.
The protein, called PI5P4Kα, is an enzyme that is involved in the production of a molecule called phosphatidylinositol 5-phosphate 4-kinase (PI5P4). PI5P4 is a signaling molecule that plays a role in a variety of cellular processes, including cell growth and division.
In prostate cancer cells, PI5P4Kα activity is often increased. This leads to increased levels of PI5P4, which promotes the growth and survival of prostate cancer cells.
The new therapy developed by the UCSF researchers involves using a combination of drugs to block PI5P4Kα activity and reduce levels of PI5P4 in prostate cancer cells.
In preclinical studies, the new therapy was effective in killing treatment-resistant prostate cancer cells. The therapy was also well-tolerated by mice.
The researchers are now planning to start clinical trials of the new therapy in patients with treatment-resistant prostate cancer.
If the new therapy is successful in clinical trials, it could provide a new and effective treatment option for patients with this aggressive form of prostate cancer.
Details of the therapy:
The new therapy involves using a combination of two drugs:
- AZD5363: This is a small molecule drug that blocks PI5P4Kα activity.
- Enzalutamide: This is a hormone therapy drug that is commonly used to treat prostate cancer.
Enzalutamide works by blocking the androgen receptor, a protein that is essential for the growth and survival of prostate cancer cells.
The researchers believe that the combination of AZD5363 and enzalutamide is more effective than either drug alone. This is because AZD5363 blocks PI5P4Kα activity, which prevents prostate cancer cells from producing the signaling molecule PI5P4. Enzalutamide then blocks the androgen receptor, which prevents prostate cancer cells from responding to androgens.
Preclinical studies:
The researchers tested the new therapy in preclinical studies using mice with treatment-resistant prostate cancer. The therapy was effective in killing prostate cancer cells and prolonging the survival of the mice.
The therapy was also well-tolerated by the mice. There were no significant side effects observed.
Clinical trials:
The researchers are now planning to start clinical trials of the new therapy in patients with treatment-resistant prostate cancer. The first clinical trial is expected to begin in early 2024.
If the clinical trials are successful, the new therapy could provide a new and effective treatment option for patients with this aggressive form of prostate cancer.
