Targeting mechanisms that cause prostate cancer to resist treatment

Overcoming mechanisms of PTPN1 driving therapy- and castration- resistant prostate cancer with novel theranostics

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11020113

This study is looking at how a specific protein might help prostate cancer become harder to treat after hormone therapy, with the hope of finding new ways to improve treatment for patients facing this tough challenge.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11020113 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind therapy- and castration-resistant prostate cancer (t-CRPC), which is a major cause of mortality in prostate cancer patients. The study focuses on the role of the protein tyrosine phosphatase non-receptor 1 (PTPN1) in the transition of androgen-dependent prostate cancer cells to a more aggressive neuroendocrine phenotype. By using tissue culture and animal models, the researchers aim to understand how anti-androgen therapies influence PTPN1 expression and contribute to treatment resistance. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could improve patient outcomes.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with advanced prostate cancer, particularly those who have developed resistance to hormonal therapies.

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that prolong survival for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting molecular mechanisms in prostate cancer, but this specific approach focusing on PTPN1 is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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.
Conditions androgen independent prostate cancerandrogen indifferent prostate cancerandrogen insensitive prostate cancerandrogen resistance in prostate cancer
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.