Ebook: Androgen-Responsive Genes in Prostate Cancer: Regulation, Function and Clinical Applications

Androgens and androgen receptors (AR) play critical roles in the development and progression of prostate cancer, the most frequently diagnosed cancer and second leading cause of cancer death in US males. AR is an androgen-dependent DNA-binding transcription factor that regulates the expression of androgen-responsive genes. Identification and characterization of androgen-responsive genes provide insights into the cellular mechanisms of androgen action and may lead to new approaches in diagnosis, prognosis, prevention and/or treatment of prostate cancer. This volume provides critical information from well respected experts in the field. Some of the exciting topics include the new understanding of mechanisms underlining the regulation of androgen-responsive gene expression, and functions of various androgen-responsive genes in biological processes essential in carcinogenesis including cell growth, angiogenesis, and epithelial-to-mesenchyme transition (EMT). Other important aspects addressed are the current and potential clinic applications of knowledge on androgen-responsive gene regulation and function. This book is intended for researchers, scientists, faculty, and advanced graduate students with an interest in androgen action and prostate cancer.​

Recent studies demonstrated a key role of the androgen receptor in the development of castration-recurrent or -resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), which is deadly and in urgent need of more effective therapies. Understanding the functions of androgen-responsive genes and their regulation and deregulation in prostate cancer progression may lead to new approaches to prevent and treat prostate cancer patients.

This book provides an up-to-date review of the overall androgen-responsive gene expression program and the regulation, function, and clinical relevance of both protein coding and non-coding androgen-responsive genes. Experts in the field of androgen action and prostate cancer research discussed the importance of DNA elements, chromatin structure, cellular signaling, and cell-cell interactions in the regulation of androgen-responsive genes in the context of prostate cancer progression, including the development of CRPC. This book is intended for individuals interested in cancer endocrinology and medical and healthcare professionals involved in prostate cancer research.