title: Neuroendocrine differentiation in prostate cancer: from lab to bedside.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To discuss the current knowledge on induction, production, sustenance and promotion of neuroendocrine differentiation in human prostate cancer.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of the literature using PubMed search and scientific journal publications.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Morphological evidence explains some functional relationship between neuroendocrine and neoplastic surrounding cells. Transdifferentiation phenomenon and new biochemical pathways could be included in the development of androgen independence and prostate cancer progression.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Multiple evidence seems to confirm that a synergistic functional network between epithelial PSA secretory cells and neuroendocrine intraprostatic system is the main trigger for the induction and sustenance of neuroendocrine differentiation. The development of new antineoplastic molecules should consider the multiple interference of the intercellular network.
authors.affiliation: Urology Unit, G. Rummo Hospital, Benevento, Italy. lucacindolo@virgilio.it
authors.forename: Luca
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Cindolo
authors.forename: Monica
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Cantile
authors.forename: Francis
authors.initials: F
authors.lastname: Vacherot
authors.forename: Stéphane
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Terry
authors.forename: Alexandre
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: de la Taille
mesh_terms: D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology; D018450:Disease Progression; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009490:Neurosecretory Systems / Q000503:physiopathology*; D019899:Paracrine Communication / Q000502:physiology; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen / Q000097:blood; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D011944:Receptors, Androgen / Q000378:metabolism; D012307:Risk Factors; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity; D015398:Signal Transduction
chemical_list: D011944:Receptors, Androgen; D017430:Prostate-Specific Antigen