Leader:  Allen Gao, M.D., Ph.D.
Co-Leader:  Ralph de Vere White, M.D. 

The Prostate Cancer Program is composed of four interactive themes with the first central to the other three:  (1) molecular pathogenesis carcinoma of prostate (CaP); (2) enhancing therapeutic response; and (3) chemoprevention Ongoing molecular biology investigations focus on the roles of tumor suppressor genes in the cell cycle and apoptosis and in addition hormone receptors and tyrosine kinases.  The second theme (therapeutic response) is focused radiation therapy and systemic therapy.  The high incidence of CaP and its long natural history provide a rationale for exploring a chemopreventive strategy.  This program has both a large presence in Phase I, II and III trials through extensive participation in national cooperative efforts and because of high levels of patient accrual.  In addition, investigator-initiated clinical studies are pursued by this program that are directly linked to the program's other themes.