New treatments for aggressive prostate cancer
Novel Therapeutic Approaches for Aggressive Prostate Cancer
This study is looking for new ways to treat neuroendocrine prostate cancer, which is a tough type of prostate cancer that doesn't respond well to current treatments, by focusing on a protein called PD-L1 that helps the cancer grow and spread, and patients may have the chance to try out these new treatment methods.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11078767 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop innovative therapies for neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a particularly aggressive form of prostate cancer known for its rapid progression and resistance to existing treatments. The approach focuses on understanding the role of a protein called PD-L1 in promoting cancer stemness and metastasis. By targeting the signaling pathways that sustain PD-L1 expression, the research seeks to enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and improve patient outcomes. Patients may be involved in trials testing these new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuroendocrine prostate cancer who have not responded well to standard therapies.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage or less aggressive forms of prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for patients with aggressive prostate cancer, potentially improving survival rates and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of targeting PD-L1 in NEPC is novel, similar strategies targeting immune checkpoint proteins have shown promise in other cancer types.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mercurio, Arthur M — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Mercurio, Arthur M
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.