Targeting a protein complex to treat therapy-resistant prostate cancer

Modulating HSP70/STUB1 machinery in therapy-resistant prostate cancer

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10927315

This study is looking at how to help men with advanced prostate cancer that doesn't respond to usual treatments by using a common medication to target a specific protein, which could make their current therapies work better again.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10927315 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to overcome resistance to anti-androgen therapies in prostate cancer, particularly in cases where the cancer has evolved to a more aggressive form known as castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The approach focuses on modulating the HSP70/STUB1 protein complex, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability of androgen receptors that drive cancer growth. By using an FDA-approved drug called niclosamide, the researchers aim to reduce the levels of a variant androgen receptor that contributes to treatment resistance, potentially restoring the effectiveness of existing therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with castrate-resistant prostate cancer who have developed resistance to standard anti-androgen treatments.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment options for men with therapy-resistant prostate cancer, enhancing their chances of survival.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar protein complexes to overcome drug resistance in cancer, indicating a potential for success with this approach.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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.