Protein that spurs spread of prostate cancer discovered

Washington, May 20 (ANI): Scientists have discovered that Stat5, a signaling protein previously found to be key to survival of prostate cancer, is also involved in metastasis.

The study, conducted by researchers from the Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson, demonstrates in both laboratory and animal models that nuclear Stat5 over-expression leads to a deadly spread of the cancer.

They add that their work with mice was unique in that it was the first time Stat5 was associated with prostate cancer metastasis processes in an animal model.

"Until now, we thought that Stat5 was involved in primarily promoting tumor growth, but this study indicates it could be one of the key players in pushing prostate cancer to spread," said Marja Nevalainen, associate professor of Cancer Biology, Urology and Medical Oncology at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University.

"This seminal paper is sure to open up a new avenue of research, including investigation of therapies that could target Stat5 expression. Fresh approaches are needed since there are no effective therapies for prostate cancer that has metastasized," Nevalainen added.

The study has been published in the online edition of Endocrine-Related Cancer. (ANI)