How inherited genes shape prostate cancer behavior
Germline Determinants of Prostate Cancer Evolution
This project looks at whether a man's inherited DNA helps explain why some prostate cancers stay slow while others become aggressive.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11308663 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, researchers will compare men’s inherited DNA with features of their prostate tumors to see how germline genes influence cancer evolution. They will combine genetic tests, tumor RNA analyses, and clinical follow-up data to identify patterns that link inherited variants to tumor behavior. The work includes men of diverse ancestry to understand why risk and aggression differ across groups. Findings aim to improve predictions about which localized cancers are likely to become dangerous.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are men diagnosed with localized prostate cancer who can provide blood and tumor tissue samples and clinical follow-up information, especially those from diverse ancestral backgrounds.
Not a fit: Men without prostate cancer or those already with widespread metastatic disease are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could help doctors better predict which localized prostate cancers need treatment and which can be safely monitored.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown inherited variants influence prostate cancer risk and some markers relate to aggression, but combining germline data with tumor profiles across ancestries is a newer approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Spellman, Paul T. — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Spellman, Paul T.
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.