Understanding how certain genetic changes lead to aggressive prostate cancer

Microenvironmental drivers of indolent to aggressive prostate cancer switch mediated by combined MYC Activation and PTEN loss

NIH-funded research Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10918243

This study is looking at how certain genetic changes in prostate cancer can make it more aggressive, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these changes affect the immune system and could lead to better treatments for prostate cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project IDNIH-10918243 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the transition from indolent to aggressive prostate cancer by examining the roles of specific genetic changes, particularly the loss of the PTEN gene and the activation of the MYC gene. Using advanced mouse models, the study aims to uncover how these genetic alterations influence the tumor microenvironment, particularly through immune evasion mechanisms. By analyzing the interactions between cancer cells and surrounding immune cells, the research seeks to identify potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for better management of prostate cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with prostate cancer, particularly those with low-grade lesions that may harbor aggressive characteristics.

Not a fit: Patients with non-prostate cancers or those with advanced metastatic prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for identifying and treating aggressive prostate cancer, potentially saving lives.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic drivers of cancer progression, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Baltimore, 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 Cancers
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.