Understanding how the tumor environment affects prostate cancer spread and treatment resistance

Defining Tumor Microenvironmental Mediators of Prostate Cancer Metastasis and Therapy Resistance

['FUNDING_R01'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10998222

This study is looking at how certain cells in the area around prostate tumors might affect the spread of advanced prostate cancer and how well treatments work, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients get better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10998222 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the tumor microenvironment in the progression of metastatic prostate cancer and its resistance to therapies. It focuses on cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) and a specific protein called Asporin (ASPN), which may influence how prostate cancer cells spread and respond to treatment. By analyzing these interactions, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to treatment failure and identify potential new therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for advanced prostate cancer.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with metastatic prostate cancer, particularly those experiencing treatment resistance.

Not a fit: Patients with localized prostate cancer or those who have not yet undergone treatment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatment strategies for patients with metastatic prostate cancer, potentially overcoming resistance to current therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the tumor microenvironment's role in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.