How the NKX3.1 protein helps protect the prostate from cancer
Nuclear and non-nuclear functions of NKX3.1 in suppression of prostate cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11304541
This work explains how a prostate protein called NKX3.1 keeps prostate cells healthy and how losing it can speed up cancer as men get older.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11304541 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will study the NKX3.1 protein and how it works both inside the cell nucleus and in mitochondria to protect prostate cells. They will use cell studies and mouse models that combine loss of NKX3.1 with mutations that damage mitochondrial DNA to mimic aging-related changes. The team will examine how NKX3.1 affects gene activity, mitochondrial function (oxidative phosphorylation), and responses to oxidative stress and inflammation. Findings are intended to clarify why loss of NKX3.1 accelerates prostate cancer with age and to point toward molecular targets for prevention or therapy.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with prostate cancer or older men at elevated risk for prostate cancer would be the most relevant group for future clinical follow-up or related trials.
Not a fit: People without prostate disease or those seeking immediate treatment should not expect direct clinical benefit from this basic and preclinical research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could identify new ways to prevent or slow age-related prostate cancer by targeting NKX3.1-related pathways.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has linked NKX3.1 loss to prostate cancer, while the idea that NKX3.1 also acts at mitochondria is newer and less clinically tested.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ABATE-SHEN, CORY — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: ABATE-SHEN, CORY
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.
Conditions: Cancers