Molecular biology of prostate development and prostate cancer.
The molecular mechanisms that control prostate development have been intensely studied in recent years due to the emergence of prostatic cancer as a major health concern. Several recent studies have led to the identification of numerous genes that are required for prostate organogenesis, many of which also contribute to prostate carcinogenesis. These genes fall into several categories, including proto-oncogenes, transcription factors, homeobox genes, growth factors and cell adhesion molecules. This review focuses on those genes which have been implicated in prostate growth and development, and which exhibit deregulated expression in prostate cancer.
Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine and Department of Neuroscience and Cell Biology, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, Piscataway 08854-5638, USA.
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PJ
Sciavolino
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Abate-Shen
D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules / Q000502:physiology; D015972:Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic; D005801:Genes, Homeobox / Q000502:physiology; D005809:Genes, Regulator / Q000502:physiology; D006133:Growth Substances / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011467:Prostate / Q000254:growth & development*; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D011519:Proto-Oncogenes / Q000502:physiology
D015815:Cell Adhesion Molecules; D006133:Growth Substances