Anti-GnRH Antibodies and Prostate Cancer Treatment
Author Information
Author(s): Simms M S, Scholfield D P, Jacobs E, Michaeli D, Broome P, Humphreys J E, Bishop M C
Primary Institution: Department of Urology, City Hospital, Nottingham, UK
Hypothesis
Can anti-GnRH antibodies induce castrate levels of testosterone in patients with advanced prostate cancer?
Conclusion
The study found that immunizing patients with prostate cancer against GnRH can achieve and maintain castrate levels of testosterone.
Supporting Evidence
- The drug was well tolerated overall.
- A significant reduction in serum testosterone and PSA was seen in 5 patients.
- Castrate levels of testosterone were achieved in 4 patients and maintained for up to 9 months.
- Patients with the highest antibody titre had the best response in terms of testosterone suppression.
Takeaway
This study shows that a new treatment can help lower testosterone levels in men with prostate cancer, which might be better than traditional treatments.
Methodology
Patients received either 30 or 100 μg of D17DT intramuscularly on three occasions over six weeks, followed by blood tests.
Limitations
The study was a pilot with a small sample size and short follow-up.
Participant Demographics
Twelve patients with histologically proven prostate cancer requiring hormonal therapy.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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