The role of a specific protein in the development of prostate cancer is being investigated by scientists at the University of Glasgow.

The one-year study, led by Professor George Baillie, has received £50,000 funding from the charity Prostate Cancer UK’s Movember Foundation Project and will examine the role the protein PDE4D7 plays in the development of the disease.

Prof Baillie, of the Institute of Cardiovascular & Medical Sciences, said: “We know that the amount of a protein called PDE4D7 significantly differs between hormone responsive and hormone unresponsive prostate cancers. This protein binds to a number of other proteins.

“We want to investigate these links and see if we can use this information to develop a new strategy to halt the growth of the cancer cells. This will identify potential targets for new treatments for advanced prostate cancer, and funding provided by Prostate Cancer UK and Movember will allow us to take one step closer to this goal.”

Sarah Coghlan, UK Country Director at The Movember Foundation, said: “It's through the efforts of 10,000 Mo Bros and Mo Sistas in Scotland, and thousands more across the UK, that we have been able to fund such vital research to address the key challenges in prostate cancer. With continued support we can do more so that fewer men die from prostate cancer - and those that live can enjoy happier, healthier, longer lives.”

Dr Iain Frame, Director of Research at Prostate Cancer UK, said: “Through our ongoing partnership with the Movember Foundation we have been able to fund another bumper round of high quality research grants this year. These focus on the key issues facing prostate cancer - from identifying men at risk of developing aggressive forms to discovering new treatments for advanced disease.

“However the story doesn’t end here. We really need more help to build on the great work that is already underway if we are to accelerate the process of conquering the most common cancer in men. As part of our ongoing Men United campaign we are calling on people across the country to make this summer count by doing something with their friends to raise funds and help beat the disease. Prostate cancer takes 10,000 lives every year. By pulling together we can stop it in its tracks.”

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Notes to Editors

A full list of the research grants awarded by Prostate Cancer UK this year please visit: www.prostatecanceruk.org/research/research-we-fund

Media enquiries: stuart.forsyth@glasgow.ac.uk / 0141 330 4831

Related links

• Professor George Baillie: researcher profile

 

First published: 22 May 2015