Understanding what causes aggressive metastatic prostate cancer

Defining and Characterizing Drivers of Lethal Metastatic Prostate Cancer

NIH-funded research University of Nebraska Medical Center · NIH-10891541

This study is looking at how certain genes might cause slow-growing prostate cancer to become more aggressive and spread, with the hope of finding new treatments to help patients with advanced prostate cancer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Omaha, United States)
Project IDNIH-10891541 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors that lead to the transition from slow-growing to aggressive metastatic prostate cancer. By using patient-derived organoids and primary cell lines from a mouse model, the team aims to identify key cellular changes and signaling pathways involved in this switch. A particular focus is on the Axl receptor, which may play a crucial role in promoting metastasis. The findings could help in developing targeted therapies to prevent or treat lethal forms 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 advanced or metastatic disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage, indolent prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the aggressive forms of prostate cancer, improving survival rates for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting specific genetic factors in cancer progression, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Omaha, 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 Cancer CauseCancer EtiologyCancer Genes
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.