Several novel targets are currently being evaluated both preclinically and
clinically for the prevention of prostate cancer. Four divergent and novel
approaches were discussed at the National Cancer Institute-sponsored worksh
op entitled, "New Clinical Strategies in Prostate Cancer Prevention," These
interventions are further categorized into soy protein-based serine-protea
se inhibitors that reduce superoxide-induced DNA damage, and molecularly ta
rgeted approaches that are directed toward endothelin-1 expression/overexpr
ession, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor ligands, and insulinlike
growth factors. Understanding each of these approaches has offered insight
s into the process of malignant transformation of prostatic epithelium, and
further illustrates the difficulties of developing new agents in the treat
ment and prevention of prostate cancer, Close scrutiny of the clinical data
emerging with these approaches, including validation of biologic endpoints
, is required before large-scale prevention studies with these novel agents
and targets can be considered. (C) 2001, Elsevier Science Inc.