Abiraterone

Abiraterone is currently a drug under investigation for use in prostate cancer. It blocks the formation of testosterone by inhibiting CYP17A1 (CYP450c17), an enzyme also known as 17α-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase.^[1] This enzyme is involved in the formation of DHEA and androstenedione, which may ultimately be metabolized into testosterone.

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The results of two Phase II trials indicate that abiraterone may reduce prostate specific antigen (PSA) levels, as well as shrink tumors.^[2] A Phase III trial is planned for 2008.

References

1. ^ Attard G, Belldegrun AS, de Bono JS (2005). "Selective blockade of androgenic steroid synthesis by novel lyase inhibitors as a therapeutic strategy for treating metastatic prostate cancer". BJU Int. 96 (9): 1241-6. doi:10.1111/j.1464-410X.2005.05821.x. PMID 16287438.
2. ^ European Society for Medical Oncology. "Hormone inhibitor promising for hard-to-treat prostate cancer." News release. Published July 8, 2007. Last accessed July 10, 2007.