Targeting protein arginine methylation to block androgen receptor signals in prostate cancer
Regulation of androgen receptor signaling in prostate cancer by protein arginine methylation
['FUNDING_U01'] · DANA-FARBER CANCER INST · NIH-11314494
Seeing if drugs that block PRMT enzymes can stop androgen receptor signals that drive advanced prostate cancer in men whose cancer no longer responds to hormone therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_U01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DANA-FARBER CANCER INST (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11314494 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project builds on lab findings that two enzymes, PRMT1 and PRMT5, help turn on the androgen receptor in prostate cancer. Researchers will use CRISPR screens and molecular studies to define how these enzymes modify the receptor and its partner proteins. They will test existing PRMT inhibitors, alone and combined with standard androgen-receptor blockers, in experimental cancer models. Because some PRMT inhibitors are already in early clinical trials, successful results could move this approach toward patient testing.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Men with advanced or castration-resistant prostate cancer, especially those whose tumors show ongoing androgen receptor activity, would be the most relevant candidates for related trials.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage disease well-controlled by standard hormone therapy or tumors that do not depend on AR signaling are unlikely to benefit from PRMT-targeted approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to new drug combinations that better block androgen receptor signaling and help treat castration-resistant prostate cancer, potentially slowing progression.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical work and early-phase trials of PRMT inhibitors show anti-cancer activity, but combining PRMT inhibitors with AR antagonists is a newer strategy that has not been widely tested in patients.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- DANA-FARBER CANCER INST — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VISWANATHAN, SRINIVAS RAGHAVAN — DANA-FARBER CANCER INST
- Study coordinator: VISWANATHAN, SRINIVAS RAGHAVAN
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.