MOLECULAR-BIOLOGY OF PROSTATE DEVELOPMENT AND PROSTATE-CANCER

The molecular mechanisms that control prostate development have been i ntensely studied in recent years due to the emergence of prostatic can cer as a major health concern. Several recent studies have led to the identification of numerous genes that are required for prostate organo genesis, many of which also contribute to prostate carcinogenesis. The se genes fall into several categories, including proto-oncogenes, tran scription factors, homeobox genes, growth factors and cell adhesion mo lecules. This review focuses on those genes which have been implicated in prostate growth and development, and which exhibit deregulated exp ression in prostate cancer.