Using testosterone cycling to improve immune response in prostate cancer
Androgen Activation of Innate Immune Signaling to Enhance Prostate Cancer Immune Response
['FUNDING_R01'] · JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY · NIH-11000280
This study is looking at how changing testosterone levels might help boost the immune system in men with advanced prostate cancer that doesn't respond to hormone therapy, especially for those with certain DNA repair issues, to see if it can work better when combined with other treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11000280 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how bipolar androgen therapy (BAT), which involves alternating testosterone levels, can enhance the immune response in patients with castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms behind BAT, particularly how it induces DNA damage that may trigger immune pathways. By exploring the interaction between testosterone and immune cells, the research seeks to identify ways to combine BAT with other treatments for better outcomes. Patients with specific DNA repair defects may particularly benefit from this approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are men diagnosed with castration-resistant prostate cancer, particularly those with DNA repair defects.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage prostate cancer or those who do not have castration-resistant disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment strategies for advanced prostate cancer by enhancing the immune response.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches in enhancing immune responses in cancer treatment, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES
- JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY — BALTIMORE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: KACHHAP, SUSHANT KRISHNA — JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: KACHHAP, SUSHANT KRISHNA
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.
Conditions: advanced prostate cancer, androgen independent prostate cancer, androgen indifferent prostate cancer, androgen insensitive prostate cancer, androgen resistance in prostate cancer