Some of the prostate cancer clinical trials at The James involve treating cancer that has metastasized to other parts of the body such as the bones. One clinical trial is examining the quality of life for patients who have fairly advanced prostate cancer. Two trials are examining the significance of the levels of the hormone androgen in patients with the disease, while other trials are studying the effectiveness of radiation treatments or drugs such as Flutamide. A cancer prevention trial for men over age 55 is evaluating the effectiveness of a substance called Finasteride in preventing prostate cancer. In addition to clinical research, Ohio State's Comprehensive Cancer Center is conducting a variety of basic research programs that open new doors to how diseases can be treated and prevented.
Basic research answers a question of scientific or medical interest.
Examples of basic research include identifying the role of a certain molecule in the cell or how a particular gene is turned on and off. Jessie L.-S. Au, Pharm. D., Ph.D., is an internationally renowned researcher in the field of urologic oncology. Dr. Au is Deputy Director of OSU's Comprehensive Cancer Center. An example of a particular basic research project at the Comprehensive Cancer Center which could benefit prostate cancer patients involves finding a way to more quickly identify potential new anti-cancer drugs.