Targeting CDK9: a promising therapeutic opportunity in prostate cancer. Issue 12 (December 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Rahaman, Muhammed H; Kumarasiri, Malika; Mekonnen, Laychiluh B; Yu, Mingfeng; Diab, Sarah; Albrecht, Hugo; Milne, Robert W; Wang, Shudong
• Is Part Of: Endocrine-related cancer. Volume 23:Issue 12(2016)
• Page Start: T211
• Page End: T226
• Publication Date: 2016-12
• Subjects: CDK9 -- prostate cancer -- RNAPII transcription -- anti-apoptotic proteins -- apoptosis -- therapeutics; Endocrine glands -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Endocrinology -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Endocrine aspects -- Periodicals; 616.9944005
• DOI: 10.1530/ERC-16-0299
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1351-0088

Abstract

Abstract : Cyclin-dependent kinase 9 (CDK9) is a key transcriptional regulator and a lucrative target for cancer treatment. Targeting CDK9 can effectively confine the hyperactivity of androgen receptor and the constitutive expression of anti-apoptotic proteins; both being main causes of prostate cancer (PCa) development and progression. In castrate-resistant PCa, traditional therapies that only target androgen receptor (AR) have become obsolete due to reprograming in AR activity to make the cells independent of androgen. CDK9 inhibitors may provide a new and better therapeutic opportunity over traditional treatment options by targeting both androgen receptor activity and anti-apoptotic proteins, improving the chances of positive outcomes, especially in patients with the advanced disease. This review focuses on biological functions of CDK9, its involvement with AR and the potential for therapeutic opportunities in PCa treatment.