Prostate cancer hijacks amino acid metabolism to signal hormone therapy resistance

Prostate tumors can alter amino acid metabolism to bypass the effects of hormone therapy, potentially leading to resistance, according to a new study by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers. The study, published in Nature Metabolism, found that a compound called propionyl-CoA, produced during the breakdown of the amino acids isoleucine and valine, stimulates cholesterol production in cancer cells.

This helps prostate cancer cells adapt to the hormone-depleted environment caused by treatment and acquire more aggressive characteristics. By uncovering this unexpected connection, the researchers identified a potential target for new drugs or dietary strategies to counteract resistance. The study's senior author, Dr. John Blenis, noted that the findings suggest manipulating the levels of isoleucine and valine could improve treatment outcomes.

Further research is needed to determine if dietary interventions can safely and effectively reduce these amino acids in patients.