Investigating a new treatment approach for prostate cancer that resists standard therapies

Targeting a Novel Signaling Nexus pACK/pCSK/pLCK in Immune Checkpoint Blockade (ICB)-Resistant Prostate Cancer

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10876452

This study is looking at how prostate cancer can become resistant to regular treatments and is testing a new approach to help the immune system fight the cancer better by blocking a protein called ACK1, which might help improve outcomes for men with advanced prostate cancer.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10876452 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how prostate cancer develops resistance to standard treatments, particularly in cases known as Castration Resistant Prostate Cancer (CRPC). It explores the role of a specific protein, ACK1, in preventing immune cells from attacking the tumor. By using a new small molecule inhibitor to block ACK1, the study aims to enhance the immune response against prostate cancer. Researchers will also utilize genetically modified mice to observe how changes in ACK1 affect immune cell activation and tumor growth.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with advanced prostate cancer who have developed resistance to standard hormone therapies.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those who have not yet undergone hormone therapy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for prostate cancer, particularly for patients whose cancer has become resistant to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in other cancers, suggesting that this approach may also be effective in prostate cancer.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.