New treatments for aggressive prostate cancer using peptide inhibitors

Cyclic Peptide Protease Inhibitors for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10747871

This study is working on new treatments for aggressive prostate cancer by targeting a specific enzyme that is found in higher amounts in this type of cancer, especially in African-American patients or those with a certain cancer type, to help improve their outcomes.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Madison, United States)
Project IDNIH-10747871 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing novel cyclic peptide inhibitors that target a specific enzyme, aminopeptidase N (APN), which is overexpressed in aggressive forms of prostate cancer. The team has identified a unique antibody that allows for precise detection of APN in prostate cancer tissues, enabling better understanding of its role in the disease. By using advanced techniques, they aim to create effective therapies that could improve outcomes for patients with aggressive prostate cancer, particularly those who are African-American or have non-androgen receptor driven cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include men diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer, especially those with non-androgen receptor driven disease or those who are African-American.

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 new treatment options that significantly improve survival rates and quality of life for men with aggressive prostate cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in cancer treatment, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Madison, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.