February 19, 2025
Prostate Cancers

Potential Treatment Strategy for Advanced Prostate Cancers Discovered by Researchers

A recent study conducted by researchers from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute has unveiled a promising treatment strategy for certain advanced prostate cancers. The research focuses on the role of epigenetic changes, which can cause prostate cancer to resist treatment by altering gene expression.

One of the epigenetic mechanisms responsible for this alteration is the tagging of genes with DNA methylation marks. This process is mediated by molecules known as DNA methyltransferases. These tags can modify gene expression in ways that promote tumor growth and progression towards advanced forms of the disease.

In their study, the researchers utilized patient-derived preclinical models of advanced prostate cancer to examine the effects of inhibiting DNA methylation with a drug called decitabine. Interestingly, decitabine, which is usually used in the treatment of certain blood cancers, was found to slow tumor growth specifically in a subset of advanced prostate cancers that exhibit neuroendocrine features or loss of the gene RB1.

Furthermore, the inhibition of DNA methylation resulted in a decrease in methylation levels, as well as an increase in the expression of a gene responsible for producing a receptor called B7-H3. Notably, B7-H3 is currently being targeted by an antibody-drug conjugate named DS-7300a, which is being evaluated in clinical trials. The study revealed that DS-7300a was effective on its own in prostate cancers with high levels of B7-H3. However, its effectiveness was reduced when B7-H3 levels were low.

The researchers also observed that combing decitabine with DS-7300a sensitized tumors to the targeted therapy, thereby improving its efficacy. This finding suggests that the combination of the two drugs could potentially offer a more effective treatment option for patients with advanced prostate cancer, particularly those with tumors harboring RB1 gene loss or neuroendocrine features.

Patients falling into this specific category typically have a poor prognosis and limited treatment options. Thus, this research signifies a significant breakthrough, as it opens the door to the development of a treatment strategy specifically designed for this population. The strategy could involve the use of decitabine, B7-H3 targeted therapy, or a combination of both.

The study was supported by various organizations, including the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, the Prostate Cancer Foundation, the United States Department of Defense, the National Cancer Center, the National Institutes of Health, and Daiichi Sankyo.

Overall, this research holds tremendous potential in advancing the field of prostate cancer treatment and offers hope for patients with advanced forms of the disease. The combination of decitabine and B7-H3 targeted therapy could prove to be a groundbreaking approach in improving patient outcomes and providing much-needed treatment options.

*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it

Money Singh
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Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

Money Singh

Money Singh is a seasoned content writer with over four years of experience in the market research sector. Her expertise spans various industries, including food and beverages, biotechnology, chemicals and materials, defense and aerospace, consumer goods, etc. 

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