This gene increases the risk of prostate cancer

The most common cancer in humans Has now a genetic explanation! In addition, Each year, near 60,000 new cases prostate cancer are diagnosed in France in male people. Consequently, Among them, around 9,000 patients succumb to it. Nevertheless, This cancer develops in the prostatic glandand often silently: it is only when it progresses that symptoms appear. Furthermore, in particular Urinary disorders.

And the known risk factors are multiple! Moreover, Besidesagemain cause, we also know that the family history, theobesityor theethnicity play a role. Screening methods do not yet prevent all cases, hence the need for better Understand the mechanisms which promote the disease.

Foxa1, a key gene in tumor development – This gene increases risk prostate

It is in this context that a recent scientific discovery attracts all the attention! An international team. based at the University of Michigan (United States), highlighted the central role of Foxa1 in the development this gene increases risk prostate of the disease. This gene was previously known for its involvement in the functioning of Androgens receptorsessential in the growth. development of Prostatic cells.

This study. published in the journal Science June 26, 2025, reveals that Foxa1 specific mutations can transform this gene into real oncogenthat is to say in an engine of the progression of cancer. These alterations are present in 10 to 40 % of prostate cancers dependent on hormones. Researchers have distinguished two main categories of changes:

• Class 1 mutationsobserved in prostate cancers at the early stage. However, these cancers retain some sensitivity to hormonal therapies.
• Class Mutations 2 appear frequently in metastatic forms. They do not alone trigger a proliferation, but deeply modify the identity of prostatic cells. Result: tumors become Treatment resistant Hormonals.

Result ? In addition to enlightening us on a cause of development of prostate cancers. these discoveries thus make it possible to understand why this gene increases risk prostate some of them remain sensitive to treatment while others prove to be refractory, and therefore particularly complex to treat.

A discovery that opens up new perspectives for research

But what to do with this discovery? Because of course, no one can choose to have, or not, a altered foxa1 gene. On the other hand. the identification of the role of these changes changes the way of considering the fight against prostate cancer, paving the way for an increasingly personalized. Concretely. this could lead to several advances:

• More precise genetic screening : Foxa1 could become a key biomarker to identify, from the diagnosis, patients at risk of developing aggressive or resistant cancer.
• Targeted treatments : Depending on the type of mutation. it would be possible to adapt the therapeutic strategy, using for example specific inhibitors or new molecules capable of blocking cellular reprogramming.
• A better understanding of resistance : Researchers now have a clear this gene increases risk prostate model to study why certain cancers escape hormonal treatments. which could inspire new generation therapies.