Vitamin D deficiency and its impact on prostate cancer in African American men
Men of African Ancestry are primed for aggressive prostate cancer by high prostate androgens driven by vitamin D deficiency and megalin
This study is looking at how low levels of vitamin D might impact hormone levels in the prostate, especially in African American men who are more likely to develop aggressive prostate cancer, to better understand how a specific protein plays a role in this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11086169 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how vitamin D deficiency affects hormone levels in the prostate, particularly in African American men who are at a higher risk for aggressive prostate cancer. The study aims to understand the role of a protein called megalin in regulating these hormones and how this relationship may differ based on ancestry. By analyzing clinical samples and using patient-derived models alongside mouse studies, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the increased aggressiveness of prostate cancer in this population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include African American men who are at risk for or diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Not a fit: Patients who are not of African ancestry or those who do not have prostate cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention and treatment strategies for aggressive prostate cancer in African American men.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown a correlation between vitamin D levels and prostate cancer aggressiveness, suggesting that this approach has potential for meaningful insights.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nonn, Larisa — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Nonn, Larisa
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.