How do the molecules Sprouty2 and PI3/AKT promote growth of prostate cancer?

Why we funded it

Better understanding of the molecular mechanisms that cause the development of prostate cancer, the spread of the cancer and the development of drug-resistance are crucial for the future development of effective drugs.

Men with advanced prostate cancer have limited options for treatment, and we know that not all cancers respond in the same way to treatments, so establishing these details will pave the way for development of better, individualised treatment of prostate cancers.

Scientific title: Synergistic interaction between Sprouty2 loss and PI3K/AKT activation in prostate carcinogenesis.

Research project summary

This project will use clinical prostate cancer specimens and an animal model system to study the molecules Sprouty2 and PI3/AKT, how they work together to cause aggressive prostate cancer and its spread (metastasis), and how the cancer ultimately develops resistance to hormone treatments. Better understanding of this critical topic in prostate cancer will allow us to develop better treatment.

Studying the activity levels of these molecules will be used to establish if abnormal activity levels are linked to aggressive or treatment-resistant prostate cancer. In addition, the team plan to use a mouse model to specifically test how these molecules work alone and together to cause and promote prostate cancer.

This study will provide new insights into how prostate cancer develops and progresses, the team also aim to address how to better target treatments for individuals, and "group" patients according to the activity of these molecules and the aggressiveness of disease to determine the most appropriate treatment.

Grant information

Institution - Beatson Institute, University of Glasgow
Researcher - Professor Hing Leung
Grant award - £150,812
Duration - 2011-2014
Reference - PG10-10 Leung