How surrounding non-cancer cells help prostate cancer grow
Deciphering Mechanisms of Tumor-Stromal Interactions in Prostate Cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11067819
Researchers are testing whether blocking a protein called MAOB in the non-cancer cells around prostate tumors can slow prostate cancer growth and progression.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PULLMAN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11067819 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This work focuses on the tumor microenvironment—the non-cancerous stromal cells that surround prostate tumors—and how they support cancer growth. Scientists found that a mitochondrial enzyme called MAOB is much higher in these stromal cells from patients and mouse models, and increases as disease becomes treatment-resistant. They will use patient tumor samples, primary cell cultures, and animal models to study how stromal MAOB supports tumors and to search for druggable targets that interrupt tumor-stromal communication. The project also draws on population data suggesting men taking MAOB inhibitors for other reasons seem to have lower prostate cancer rates.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with prostate cancer—including those with advanced or treatment-resistant disease—who can provide tissue samples or participate through treating hospitals are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without prostate cancer or those unable to provide tissue samples or join participating clinical sites are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to new therapies that target supportive stromal cells to slow tumor growth and reduce treatment resistance.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical lab and animal studies plus epidemiological observations suggest MAOB-targeting and stromal-directed approaches can affect tumor behavior, but clinical proof in patients is still limited.
Where this research is happening
PULLMAN, UNITED STATES
- WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY — PULLMAN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WU, BOYANG — WASHINGTON STATE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: WU, BOYANG
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.