A gene that could be key to controlling prostate cancer development and growth is being studied at the University of Virginia Health System. Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in men in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. Most prostate cancer, however, is latent and does not become a problem during a man's lifetime. A major challenge for urologists is how to distinguish the prostate cancers that are benign and can be left without treatment from those that are life-threatening and need immediate treatment. Dong's research is targeting this important subject.
Scientists know that gene mutations contribute to cancer development.
The gene Dong is studying appears to suppress tumor growth when active. In collaboration with Henry Frierson, Jr., professor of pathology at U.Va., Dong will analyze prostate tumor cells from patients who have undergone surgery to remove prostate tumors. Some of these tumor cells appear to have lost the gene that suppresses their growth. They then will analyze its molecular structure and functions in both normal and cancer cells. We hope that someday physicians will be able to analyze this gene to diagnose malignant prostate cancers, and restore its ability to suppress tumor growth.