New Prostate Cancer Breakthrough Targets Quinolinic Acid for Better Treatments

A new biochemical pathway has been uncovered that could change how prostate cancer is treated. The discovery centres on quinolinic acid, a metabolite linked to the growth and survival of cancer cells. Researchers believe it may improve the effectiveness of existing therapies for one of the most common male cancers worldwide. Prostate cancer often relies on androgen receptor (AR) signalling to progress and resist treatment. Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a standard treatment, but many patients develop resistance over time, leading to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC).

The study found that quinolinic acid, produced by the enzyme HAAO in the kynurenine pathway, boosts AR signalling through an FDPS-dependent mechanism. This increases cancer cell growth and survival. HAAO levels are higher in prostate cancer tissues, particularly in advanced stages, and are linked to a worse outlook for patients.

Modulating quinolinic acid levels can make prostate cancer cells more responsive to combination therapies. Scientists propose pairing HAAO inhibitors or agents that block quinolinic acid synthesis with anti-androgen drugs like enzalutamide. This approach may prevent or delay resistance to treatment.

The findings also suggest the HAAO-quinolinic acid-FDPS-AR axis could be a target for other cancers driven by steroid hormone receptor signalling. The discovery highlights a potential new strategy to combat prostate cancer. By targeting quinolinic acid and its pathway, existing treatments may work better and last longer. This could lead to improved outcomes for patients with advanced or resistant forms of the disease.