Impact of prostate cancer subtypes on bone remodeling and microarchitecture in metastatic lesions of the spine: A combined cellular, genetic and mineralization study

One in nine men will develop prostate cancer (PC) in their lifetime. Although modern therapies have increased the survival rate, almost all advanced cases will metastasize to bone, with the axial skeleton being the most frequent location. Bone metastases (BM) are the most severe complications of PC generating severe pain, fractures, and spinal cord compression. So far, it is not clear how PC BM are related to pain and fracture. Most cancers that generate bone complications, are associated with bone loss. However, PC is associated with bone formation. The aims of this project are to understand the structure of this new formed bone, how prostate cancer cells induce these changes, and if there are any specific types of PC associated with these changes. The ultimate goal is improving disease management and preventing complications of PC BM.
I have observed the microstructure structure of PC BM in mineral and protein content. Also, I have identified different types of PC cells in the PC BM, meaning the cells are undergoing a transformation process in the bone. These results are unprecedented, and my aim is now to expand the sample size and to explore the structure of PC BM in greater detail in order to prevent its severe consequences.