Researchers at the University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center have identified a critical mechanism behind prostate cancer’s resistance to enzalutamide, a commonly used antiandrogen therapy. Their study, published in Science Signaling, reveals that the protein PLK1 promotes the degradation of PDCD4, a tumor suppressor. This degradation activates a pathway that not only clears certain drugs but also enhances cell proliferation, thereby contributing to the development of resistance to enzalutamide .
Importantly, the researchers demonstrated that inhibiting a key protein within this activated pathway restored the cancer cells’ sensitivity to enzalutamide, leading to tumor cell death. This effect was consistent across both genetic and pharmacological interventions, indicating a promising new therapeutic strategy. These findings offer hope for overcoming drug resistance in advanced prostate cancer, potentially improving treatment outcomes for patients facing limited options . Click for More Details
