Molecule identified in prostate cancer
Chapel Hill, N.c. | November 30, 2005 12:01:13 AM IST
 
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill researchers say they have
identified a molecule that stimulates the aggressive growth of prostate
cancer.

The molecule, Ack1 -- a member of the growth-promoting tyrosine kinase
gene family -- stimulates tumor formation, in part by signaling prostate
cells to rid themselves of a tumor-suppressor protein.
Normally, this suppressor protein would inhibit rapid cell growth by
signaling the cell to destroy itself.

A report on the study, which appeared Nov. 15 in the journal Cancer
Research, also points to Ack1 as a potential target for developing novel
drugs against prostate cancer.

The study's senior author, Dr. Shelton Earp, a professor of cancer
research, pharmacology and medicine, said tests of Ack1 demonstrate a
profound effect on tumor growth in experimental systems. It's a
remarkable effect, said Earp. Tumors grew more rapidly and invaded as if
they were converted to advanced prostate cancer.

Another major finding involved an experimental drug developed by the
National Cancer Institute called geldanamycin. In laboratory tests, the
researchers found Ack1 activity could be inhibited by that drug through
interference with the cells' molecular interactions, offering a target
for treatment.

knowledge is power - growing old is mandatory - growing wise is optional    
"Many more men die with prostate cancer than of it. Growing old is
invariably fatal. Prostate cancer is only sometimes so."
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