 for the treatment of metastatic prostate cancer)
mTOR – which stands for mammalian target of rapamycin – is a protein that regulates vital cell growth processes. mTOR receives external signals from growth factors, hormones, and proteins. It then gives the 'on' or 'off' signals for the cell to grow and divide, or nourish itself. If a cell's mTOR is not properly regulating cell growth (termed ‘oncogene’), it can lead to the uncontrolled multiplication of cells, resulting in cancer. Indeed, ‘damaged’ mTOR contributes to the development and spreading of many types of cancer. When this happens, your doctor may prescribe an mTOR inhibitor – such as Temsirolimus (Torisel), Afinitor (Everolimus) and Sirolimus (Rapamune) – drugs used nowadays for the treatment of cancers and other conditions.
The present, pre-clinical study, describes the discovery of a new type of mTOR inhibitor named INK128.
Using genetic analysis methods, the authors revealed that in prostate cancer cells, ‘oncogenic’ (dysfunctional) mTOR initiates the production of various proteins that promote cell invasion and metastasis, features of aggressive cancer cell behavior. When used in either cell cultures or mice, INK128 effectively inhibits mTOR formation and thereby prevents the generation of the cancerous cascade of signals on a molecular level. As a result of mTOR inhibition, cancer cell multiplication and spreading are hindered.
This experimental trial extends current understanding of the molecular process of mTOR-mediated cancer cell invasiveness and aggressiveness. In addition, it shows promising results for the use of a novel mTOR inhibitor, INK128, for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer for which there is presently no cure, and potentially for other metastatic cancers.
Published By :
Nature
Date :
May 03, 2012
