Molecular biology in prostate carcinoma

Although steroid hormones are reported to be a prerequisite for prostate cell proliferation, cell division is not an inevitable consequence of the presence of hormones. The important role diffusible trophic factors may play in the normal and pathologic regulatory processes within the prostate offers an exciting, new research initiative. In order to clarify the relationship between the Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), its receptor (EGFr) and steroid receptors at target tissue levels, we demonstrated a significant linear correlation between irEGF and nuclear androgen receptor (nAR) levels in human BPH tissue. Moreover we analysed EGF, EGFr, AR and DHT concentrations in the periurethral, central and peripheral zones of human prostate tissue. Apoptosis may be influenced by different factors in prostate tissue. Reduced apoptosis more than increased proliferation may be responsible for the development of prostate diseases. The neuroendocrinal system is at present focus of great interest. It may influence the development of prostate cancer and, in particular, its progression to a hormone-independent stage. Moreover, PSA expression seems to be influenced by a growth factor like EGF, independently of prostate cell proliferation.