Epigenetic changes that drive prostate cancer
Towards characterization of Epigenetic targets in Prostate Cancer
This work looks at whether proteins that change how DNA is read can reveal new ways to help men with advanced, androgen-driven prostate cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11291334 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers at the University of Pennsylvania will study how proteins that change DNA packaging — called chromatin or epigenetic factors — work with the androgen receptor to drive prostate cancer. They will examine tumor samples and laboratory models to map epigenetic marks and identify key proteins such as NSD2 that are linked to aggressive, treatment-resistant disease. Laboratory experiments and preclinical tests will test whether blocking these proteins can slow tumor growth or restore sensitivity to anti-androgen drugs. The team aims to translate those findings into potential new therapies or biomarkers for men with advanced prostate cancer.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with advanced or metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer, especially those whose tumors are resistant to abiraterone or enzalutamide or who can donate tumor or blood samples, would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Men with early-stage localized prostate cancer or tumors not driven by the androgen receptor are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify new drug targets or biomarkers that lead to treatments for men with anti-androgen–resistant prostate cancer.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have linked NSD2 and other chromatin factors to prostate cancer and preclinical work suggests epigenetic enzymes can be targeted, but successful clinical therapies remain limited.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Asangani, Irfan Ahmed — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Asangani, Irfan Ahmed
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.