Androgen receptor signalling in development and progression of prostate cancer [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Wayne Tilley (Principal investigator) ,  A/Pr Lisa Butler ,  Prof Villis Marshall

Brief description Prostate cancer is a major health problem in Australia, being the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men. Although there have been improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer, there are no effective treatments for advanced (metastatic) disease that has spread to other parts of the body. Currently, the only therapy for advanced disease involves the reduction in circulating androgens such as testosterone by surgical or medical castration, i.e. androgen ablation. Because prostate cells are dependent on testicular androgens for their growth and survival, surgical or medical castration results in an initial tumour regression. However, tumours inevitably develop resistance to androgen ablation therapy and regrow. In this study we aim to provide the most comprehensive analysis to date of the role of androgen signalling in the initiation and progression of prostate cancer. This will enable us to identify the most effective means of eliminating androgen-dependent prostate tumours and identify tumours with high metastatic potential. Our studies will indicate whether treatments targeting androgen signalling are a more effective strategy to inhibit prostate cancer growth while minimising undesirable side effects.

Funding Amount $AUD 753,420.10

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant