Abstract
The action of androgens in the development and growth of prostate carcinomas is well documented. The androgen receptor (AR) facilitates androgen-induced regulation of genes involved in cellular proliferation and differentiation. Since the early 1940s androgen ablation has been the cornerstone of treatment for metastatic prostate cancer. Although initially highly effective, hormonal therapy is not curative, and resistant disease will ultimately prevail. Mutations that alter AR conformation, function, and regulation may provide a selective growth advantage for subpopulations of cells within the tumor that are then able to proliferate in an androgen-deprived environment. Clinically, these mutations are important because they may lead to the growth of androgen-independent tumors and progression to a refractory state. Further characterization of AR mutations will lead to a more thorough understanding of their role in the development of prostate carcinomas. This information, in addition to discovering which genes are regulated by the AR, can aid in the future development of more effective pharmacotherapy for prostate cancer.
Similar content being viewed by others
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Additional information
Received: 2 November 1998 / Accepted: 8 February 1999
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Cude, K., Dixon, S., Guo, Y. et al. The androgen receptor: genetic considerations in the development and treatment of prostate cancer. J Mol Med 77, 419–426 (1999). https://doi.org/10.1007/s001090050372
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s001090050372