This federal Project Grant award from the National Cancer Institute's Cancer Biology Research program (CFDA 93.396) provides $546,133 to The Trustees of Columbia University in the City of New York to investigate the nuclear and non-nuclear functions of the NKX3.1 gene in suppressing prostate cancer progression, particularly as it relates to aging and mitochondrial dysfunction. The 5-year project, starting on April 1, 2025, aims to leverage mouse models and patient-derived organoid models to better understand how the loss of NKX3.1, combined with mitochondrial mutations, can accelerate age-related prostate cancer. The research will examine the distinct roles of nuclear and mitochondrial NKX3.1 in regulating gene expression and oxidative phosphorylation, and identify key molecular regulators linking NKX3.1 dysfunction and mitochondrial changes to prostate cancer progression. The findings are expected to provide insights into the communication between the nucleus and mitochondria, and inform novel approaches for addressing aging-related prostate cancer.
Generated 3/25/25, 4:37 AM