The role of candidate genetic polymorphisms in the etiology of prostate cancer

Prostate cancer appears to result from complex interactions among genetic, endocrine and environmental factors. Identification of risk factors for dev elopment and progression of prostate cancer is needed. This will allow rese archers to design strategies to reduce the morbidity and mortality from thi s cancer and to identify individuals at increased risk of developing the di sease. It is probable that common genetic polymorphisms (variants) in genes directly and indirectly involved in androgen biosynthesis, metabolism and regulation are important. Other important genes are likely to be those dire ctly involved in regulation of prostate cell proliferation and apoptosis.