Creating a new treatment for aggressive neuroendocrine prostate cancer

Developing A Novel Combinatorial Therapy for Lethal Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-10887407

This study is looking at new treatment options for neuroendocrine prostate cancer, a tough type of prostate cancer that can develop after hormone therapy, by exploring ways to target its weaknesses and help improve outcomes for patients like you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-10887407 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a novel combinatorial therapy specifically for neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a highly aggressive form of prostate cancer that often arises after hormone treatments. The approach involves targeting specific molecular vulnerabilities associated with NEPC, particularly the loss of the retinoblastoma (RB) protein, which is linked to the cancer's resistance to standard therapies. By investigating the effects of ferroptosis inducers, which promote a unique form of cell death, the research aims to identify effective treatment strategies that could significantly improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in clinical trials to test these new therapies as they become available.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with neuroendocrine prostate cancer, particularly those who have not responded well to existing hormone therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those with other subtypes of prostate cancer may not benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options for patients suffering from neuroendocrine prostate cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting molecular vulnerabilities in aggressive cancers, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.