Understanding how Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 affects aggressive prostate cancer

Elucidating the Role of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 in Neuroendocrine Prostate Cancer

NIH-funded research Washington State University · NIH-10803225

This study is looking at how a specific protein called TPH1 affects a tough type of prostate cancer called neuroendocrine prostate cancer, with the hope of finding new treatments that could help patients when standard therapies aren't working.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWashington State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Pullman, United States)
Project IDNIH-10803225 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of Tryptophan Hydroxylase 1 (TPH1) in neuroendocrine prostate cancer (NEPC), a severe form of prostate cancer with a poor prognosis. The study aims to identify how TPH1 contributes to the growth and differentiation of NEPC cells, particularly in cases where traditional treatments have failed. By using genetic and pharmacological methods to inhibit TPH1, researchers will assess its impact on cancer cell proliferation and tumor growth in laboratory models. The ultimate goal is to develop targeted therapies that could improve survival rates for patients with this aggressive cancer subtype.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with neuroendocrine prostate cancer or those with castration-resistant prostate cancer exhibiting neuroendocrine features.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those without neuroendocrine characteristics may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new targeted therapies that significantly prolong survival for patients with neuroendocrine prostate cancer.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways in other cancer types, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Pullman, 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 2026-06-09 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.