Stopping prostate cancer growth by targeting a specific protein called PARP-2
Androgen receptor pathway inhibition through targeting PARP-2 in castration-resistant prostate cancer
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11124170
This project aims to find new ways to stop the growth of prostate cancer that has become resistant to standard treatments by focusing on a protein called PARP-2.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124170 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Prostate cancer often relies on a signal called the androgen receptor (AR) to grow. When the cancer becomes resistant to treatments that block this signal, it's called castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Researchers have found that a protein called FOXA1 helps the AR signal work, but it's been very hard to target with medicines. This project has discovered that another protein, PARP-2, is crucial for FOXA1's function and is found in higher levels in prostate cancer, especially CRPC. We are exploring how blocking PARP-2 could disrupt the AR pathway and slow down or stop cancer growth.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, particularly those whose tumors show high levels of PARP-2 or mutations in FOXA1.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage, localized prostate cancer or other types of cancer would likely not directly benefit from this specific therapeutic approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment options for patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer, especially those whose cancer no longer responds to current therapies.
How similar studies have performed: While FOXA1 has been considered undruggable, the discovery of PARP-2's role in its function represents a novel approach, building on existing knowledge of AR signaling in prostate cancer.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JIA, LI — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: JIA, LI
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.