PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PROSTATE CANCER, AND MIT APPROACH TO ITS THERAPEUTICS

Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among men, affecting the prostate gland, which is responsible for producing seminal fluid that nourishes and transports sperm. Understanding the facets of prostate cancer, from its risk factors and symptoms to its diagnosis and treatment options, is crucial for early detection and effective management.

Several factors may increase the risk of developing prostate cancer: The risk increases significantly as men age, particularly after the age of 50. A family history of prostate or even breast cancer can elevate risk levels. African American men have a higher risk of prostate cancer compared to men of other races. The cancer in African American men is also more likely to be aggressive or advanced. Mutations in certain genes (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2) increase the risk. Diet, obesity, and smoking can also influence risk, though the direct links are still under investigation.

Early-stage prostate cancer often does not produce symptoms. As the cancer progresses, symptoms might include, Difficulty starting urination or weak or interrupted flow of urine, Frequent urination, especially at night, Difficulty emptying the bladder completely, Pain or burning during urination, Blood in the urine or semen, Pain in the back, hips, or pelvis that doesn’t go away, Painful ejaculation etc.

It’s important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than prostate cancer, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).

PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF PROSTATE CANCER

Prostate cancer arises from the uncontrolled growth of cells within the prostate gland. Its pathophysiology involves: Mutations in genes like BRCA1/BRCA2, PTEN, and TMPRSS2-ERG fusion genes can drive prostate cancer development. Epigenetic modifications affecting gene expression also play a role. Androgens continue to play a significant role, with prostate cancer cells often relying on androgen receptor signaling for growth. This is why androgen deprivation therapy is a common treatment. The tumour microenvironment, including blood vessels, immune cells, and extracellular matrix, interacts with cancer cells to influence growth, invasion, and metastasis. Chronic inflammation may contribute to the initiation and progression of prostate cancer through cellular damage, oxidative stress, and alterations in the microenvironment.

ROLE OF HEAVY METALS AND MICROELEMENTS IN PROSTATE CANCER

The role of heavy metals and microelements in the development and progression of prostate cancer has garnered significant interest in the field of oncology and environmental health. These elements, depending on their nature and concentration, can have varying effects on prostate health, potentially influencing the risk, progression, and outcomes of prostate cancer.

Cadmium exposure has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer in several studies. Cadmium can mimic the effects of estrogens in the body and may disrupt androgen receptor signaling, promoting prostate cancer cell growth. The prostate is one of the organs where cadmium can accumulate, suggesting a potential mechanism for its carcinogenic effects. Exposure to high levels of arsenic has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Arsenic can induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and epigenetic changes, contributing to carcinogenesis. However, the evidence linking arsenic exposure directly to prostate cancer risk is less consistent than for cadmium. Some research suggests a possible association between lead exposure and prostate cancer, although findings have been mixed. Lead may contribute to oxidative stress and affect hormone regulation, which could potentially influence prostate cancer development.

The potential role of lead exposure in causing prostate cancer has been a subject of research interest, given lead’s known toxic effects on human health. Lead is a heavy metal that was widely used in various products, such as gasoline, paint, and pipes, until its harmful health effects became widely recognized. Occupational exposure, environmental contamination, and old plumbing systems can still expose individuals to lead. The relationship between lead exposure and prostate cancer risk, however, remains complex and somewhat inconclusive. Lead exposure can induce oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage cellular components, including DNA. This oxidative damage can contribute to the initiation and progression of cancer. Lead can mimic or interfere with the action of hormones, which might influence cancer risk. For example, it may affect androgen signaling pathways, which are important in prostate cancer development. Exposure to lead can also result in epigenetic modifications, such as changes in DNA methylation patterns. These changes can alter gene expression, potentially contributing to carcinogenesis. Some studies focusing on workers exposed to high levels of lead, such as those in battery manufacturing or smelting, have suggested a potential association between lead exposure and increased risk of prostate cancer. However, these studies often face challenges in controlling for other occupational and environmental exposures.

The relationship between arsenic exposure and prostate cancer risk is a subject of ongoing research and debate in the environmental health and oncology communities. Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can be found in water, air, food, and soil, with exposure primarily through contaminated drinking water, certain foods, and industrial processes. While arsenic is known to be a carcinogen, its specific link to prostate cancer has produced mixed findings, highlighting the complexity of understanding environmental risk factors for cancer. 

Arsenic can induce oxidative stress by generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), which can damage DNA, proteins, and lipids in cells, potentially leading to mutations and cancer. Exposure to arsenic can lead to epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation changes that may alter gene expression, including genes involved in cancer development and progression. Chronic inflammation is a recognized risk factor for many types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Arsenic exposure can trigger inflammatory responses in the body, which may contribute to carcinogenesis.

Microelements, or trace elements, are nutrients required by the body in small amounts. They play various roles in maintaining cellular function and integrity, and imbalances can affect health, including prostate cancer risk and progression. Selenium is a trace element with antioxidant properties that can help protect cells from oxidative damage. Some studies suggest that higher selenium levels are associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer, although findings are not universally consistent. Selenium is thought to inhibit tumor growth and promote apoptosis in prostate cancer cells. Zinc is essential for numerous biological processes, including immune function and DNA repair. The prostate contains high concentrations of zinc, which is thought to play a role in regulating prostate function. Some studies have found that low zinc levels may be associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, although the relationship is complex and not fully understood. Iron is crucial for cell growth and proliferation but can also contribute to the formation of reactive oxygen species, leading to oxidative stress and DNA damage. There is interest in the role of iron in cancer development, with some evidence suggesting that excessive iron stores might increase prostate cancer risk. However, more research is needed to clarify this relationship.

The relationships between heavy metals, microelements, and prostate cancer are complex and influenced by factors such as environmental exposure levels, genetic susceptibility, and individual nutritional status. While some heavy metals, notably cadmium, have been more consistently associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, the role of microelements is nuanced, with both deficiencies and excesses potentially influencing cancer risk and progression. Further research, including well-designed epidemiological studies and mechanistic investigations, is essential to fully understand these relationships and their implications for prostate cancer prevention and treatment.

ROLE OF PHYTOCHEMICALS IN PROSTATE CANCER

Phytochemicals, the bioactive compounds found in plants, have gained significant attention for their potential role in cancer prevention and treatment, including prostate cancer. These compounds, which encompass a wide variety of molecules such as polyphenols, carotenoids, and glucosinolates, have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiproliferative properties. Here’s how some of these phytochemicals may influence prostate cancer:

Curcumin has shown promise in inhibiting the growth of prostate cancer cells through various mechanisms, including the induction of apoptosis, inhibition of cell cycle progression, and suppression of angiogenesis. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to its anticancer effects.

Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), the most studied catechin in green tea, has been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. EGCG may work by modulating several signaling pathways involved in cell proliferation and survival, including the inhibition of the NF-kB pathway and the induction of apoptosis in cancerous cells.

Resveratrol has been found to have anticancer properties in various studies, including the ability to induce cancer cell death, inhibit metastasis, and sensitize cancer cells to treatment. Its antioxidant action also plays a role in its anticancer effects.

Lycopene (from Tomatoes) is a potent antioxidant that has been extensively studied for its association with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. It is thought to work by reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, thereby inhibiting cancer cell proliferation.

Beta-Carotene (from Carrots and Leafy Greens) has antioxidant properties beneficial for health and its role in cancer prevention, including prostate cancer, has produced mixed results in research studies, suggesting that its effectiveness may vary depending on individual factors and dietary contexts.

Sulforaphane is a sulfur-containing compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. It has been shown to inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells in laboratory and animal studies by inducing apoptosis, inhibiting histone deacetylase (an enzyme involved in cancer progression), and targeting cancer stem cells.

Isoflavones Genistein and Daidzein are soy-derived compounds acting as phytoestrogens that may play a protective role against prostate cancer. They have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and induce apoptosis, possibly through their effects on hormone regulation and signalling pathways.

The relationship between nicotine exposure and prostate cancer has been a subject of interest within medical research, primarily due to the widespread use of tobacco products and the search for modifiable risk factors for prostate cancer. Nicotine itself is a stimulant compound found in tobacco plants, and while it’s best known for its addictive properties, the direct link between nicotine and cancer has been less clear compared to other tobacco-related compounds.

Nicotine’s role in cancer is primarily indirect. While nicotine itself is not considered a carcinogen, it can promote tumor growth and metastasis through various mechanisms, such as angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels that supply tumors), increased cell proliferation, and suppression of apoptosis (programmed cell death). These effects could theoretically contribute to the progression and aggressiveness of existing cancers, including prostate cancer. Studies have suggested that nicotine can enhance the survival of cancer cells by binding to nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChRs) on these cells. Activation of these receptors can lead to signaling pathways that promote tumor growth and resistance to treatment.There is some evidence to suggest that nicotine exposure may influence levels of sex hormones, including testosterone. Since the growth of prostate cancer cells can be driven by testosterone, changes in hormone levels influenced by nicotine or smoking could potentially impact prostate cancer development or progression.

The association between smoking and an increased risk of prostate cancer mortality is more established. Tobacco smoke contains thousands of compounds, many of which are carcinogens. Smokers have been found to have a higher risk of dying from prostate cancer than nonsmokers, possibly due to the effects of these other compounds rather than nicotine alone. While often marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, e-cigarettes still deliver nicotine and have been under investigation for their long-term health impacts, including cancer risk. The consensus on their safety profile, particularly concerning cancer, is still evolving. Current evidence suggests that the primary risks associated with nicotine and prostate cancer relate more to the broader effects of tobacco use rather than nicotine alone. The carcinogenic risk from smoking is attributed to various compounds in tobacco smoke, not nicotine itself. However, nicotine may still play a role in promoting the growth and spread of existing cancers.

The role of phytochemicals in prostate cancer prevention and treatment is an area of active research. While laboratory and epidemiological studies suggest that these compounds have potential health benefits, including anticancer properties, clinical trials are needed to fully understand their efficacy, optimal dosages, and mechanisms of action in humans. Moreover, the consumption of phytochemicals through whole foods is generally preferred over supplements, as whole foods provide a complex mix of nutrients and compounds that work synergistically. As research continues to evolve, the integration of phytochemical-rich foods into a balanced diet remains a promising strategy for supporting overall health and potentially reducing the risk of prostate cancer.

ROLE OF LIFE STYLE IN PROSTATE CANCER

Lifestyle factors play a significant role in the risk and progression of prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers among men worldwide. Understanding the impact of these factors is crucial for prevention strategies and may also influence treatment outcomes.

High intake of red and processed meats has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer. These foods can induce oxidative stress and inflammation, which may contribute to cancer development. Diets high in saturated fats, including those from high-fat dairy products, have been associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer. The mechanism may involve changes in hormone levels or direct effects on the prostate cells. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, particularly those high in antioxidants and phytochemicals (like tomatoes for lycopene and cruciferous vegetables for sulforaphane), may reduce prostate cancer risk. These components can neutralize oxidative stress and inhibit cancer cell growth. Consumption of soy products, which contain isoflavones, and fatty fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, has been associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. These foods may modulate inflammation and hormonal pathways involved in cancer development.

Regular physical activity has been associated with a reduced risk of advanced prostate cancer and improved survival among men with the disease. Exercise can influence hormone levels, reduce inflammation, and improve immune function, all of which may play roles in reducing cancer risk and progression.

Obesity is linked to an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer, poorer prognosis after diagnosis, and higher mortality rates. Excess body weight can affect hormone levels, including androgens and insulin, and promote inflammation, contributing to cancer risk and progression.

Smoking has been associated with an increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer and worse outcomes after diagnosis. Tobacco smoke contains carcinogenic compounds that can induce DNA damage and promote cancer progression.

The relationship between alcohol consumption and prostate cancer risk is complex, with some studies suggesting an increased risk with higher alcohol intake, particularly for heavy drinkers. Alcohol can affect hormone levels and increase the production of carcinogenic metabolites.

Chronic stress and poor psychological health may indirectly influence prostate cancer risk and outcomes through behavioural pathways (like poor diet and reduced physical activity) and physiological mechanisms (such as changes in hormonal levels and immune function).

Lifestyle factors have a significant impact on the risk and progression of prostate cancer. Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including maintaining a balanced diet rich in plant-based foods, engaging in regular physical activity, managing body weight, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol consumption, can contribute to reducing the risk of prostate cancer and supporting overall health. It’s important for individuals to discuss lifestyle changes with healthcare providers, especially in the context of cancer prevention and treatment strategies.

ROLE OF MODERN CHEMICAL DRUGS IN CAUSATION OF PROSTATE CANCER

The role of modern chemical drugs in the causation of prostate cancer is a topic of considerable interest and ongoing research. While most medications are designed to be safe with beneficial effects, there is growing concern about the potential carcinogenic effects of certain chemicals found in some drugs. The relationship between drug exposure and prostate cancer risk is complex and influenced by various factors, including the type of drug, duration of use, individual susceptibility, and lifestyle factors.

Androgen Deprivation Therapy (ADT) used for treating prostate cancer, ADT lowers testosterone levels, which can slow the growth of prostate cancer cells. However, there’s research exploring whether ADT might influence the development of more aggressive forms of cancer in the long term, though evidence is not conclusive. Illicit use of anabolic steroids has been associated with various adverse health effects, including a potential increase in the risk of prostate cancer due to their action on androgen receptors, though direct evidence linking these steroids to prostate cancer risk is limited. Drugs like finasteride and dutasteride, used to treat BPH and hair loss, work by inhibiting the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen. While these drugs can reduce the overall risk of prostate cancer, some studies suggest they may be associated with an increased risk of developing high-grade prostate cancer, although this association is still debated among researchers. There is interest in the role of chronic inflammation in prostate cancer development and whether nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) could reduce prostate cancer risk. However, the evidence is mixed, and these drugs are not currently used as a prostate cancer prevention strategy. Used to lower cholesterol levels, statins have been investigated for their potential role in reducing prostate cancer risk. Some studies suggest a protective effect, particularly against advanced or aggressive prostate cancer, though findings are not uniformly conclusive.

In addition to prescribed medications, exposure to certain chemicals in the environment or workplace, such as pesticides, industrial chemicals, and pollutants, has been under investigation for potential links to prostate cancer. The mechanisms by which these exposures might increase risk include hormonal disruption, DNA damage, and induction of oxidative stress.

The relationship between modern chemical drugs and the causation of prostate cancer is multifaceted and an area of active research. For most medications, the benefits for intended use outweigh the potential risks, especially when used under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Ongoing studies aim to clarify these risks, identify susceptible populations, and develop guidelines for minimizing any potential adverse effects. It is important for individuals to discuss the risks and benefits of any medication with their healthcare providers, considering both immediate health needs and long-term risk factors for conditions like prostate cancer.

ROLE OF ENZYMES IN PROSTATE CANCER

As in BPH, DHT is also implicated in the growth of prostate cancer cells. Inhibiting 5-Alpha Reductase enzyme can be part of the treatment strategy, especially in hormone-sensitive prostate cancer. Poly (ADP-ribose) Polymerase (PARP) are enzymes involved in DNA repair. Inhibitors of PARP have shown promise in treating prostate cancers, particularly those with mutations in DNA repair genes like BRCA1/2. Matrix Metalloproteinases (MMPs) are enzymes involved in the degradation of extracellular matrix components and are implicated in cancer invasion and metastasis. Elevated MMP levels have been associated with poor prognosis in prostate cancer. Telomerase is an enzyme that adds DNA sequence repeats to the ends of DNA strands in the telomere regions. Telomerase is often reactivated in cancer cells, allowing them to replicate indefinitely. Telomerase inhibition is a potential therapeutic approach in prostate cancer.

Prostate cancer screening can help identify cancer early on, potentially before symptoms develop.  Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test measures the level of PSA in the blood, with higher levels suggesting a greater likelihood of cancer. In Digital Rectal Exam (DRE), the doctor physically examines the prostate through the rectal wall to check for abnormalities. If these tests suggest an increased risk, further diagnostics like MRI, ultrasound, or a biopsy might be recommended to confirm the presence of cancer.

In the development and progression of prostate cancer, various enzymes play crucial roles, with their activity influenced by multiple activators. These activators can range from hormonal factors and genetic mutations to environmental exposures. Understanding these activators is essential for developing targeted therapies and identifying potential risk factors for prostate cancer.

Androgens, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are crucial male sex hormones responsible for the development of male characteristics and reproduction. They are synthesized in the testes, adrenal glands, and to some extent in peripheral tissues. The synthesis of androgens is regulated by several enzymes, with certain factors known to activate or upregulate these enzymes, thereby influencing androgen levels. Understanding these activators is vital for addressing conditions associated with androgen imbalance, such as hypogonadism, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and prostate cancer.

Cholesterol Side-Chain Cleavage Enzyme (P450scc) converts cholesterol to pregnenolone, the first step in steroid hormone synthesis.
3β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) converts pregnenolone to progesterone, an intermediate in the androgen synthesis pathway. 17α-Hydroxylase/C17,20-lyase (CYP17A1) catalyze the conversion of progesterone and pregnenolone to their respective 17-hydroxy forms and subsequently to androstenedione, a direct precursor to testosterone. 17β-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase (17β-HSD) converts androstenedione to testosterone. 5α-Reductase converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a primary activator of androgen synthesis in males. It stimulates Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, primarily by upregulating CYP17A1 enzyme activity. Adrenocorticotropic Hormone (ACTH) can stimulate the production of adrenal androgens (dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA] and androstenedione) by activating enzymes like 3β-HSD and CYP17A1.  Insulin and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) can enhance androgen synthesis in the ovaries and adrenal glands by upregulating enzymes like CYP17A1, particularly relevant in the context of PCOS.  Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) can also indirectly support Leydig cell function and androgen synthesis by enhancing the responsiveness of Leydig cells to LH. Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG): hCG can mimic the action of LH and is often used in clinical settings to stimulate testosterone production in cases of hypogonadism.

Seen in conditions like obesity and PCOS, hyperinsulinemia can increase ovarian and adrenal androgen synthesis by upregulating enzymes such as CYP17A1. Some drugs can influence androgen levels by affecting the activity of synthesizing enzymes. For example, certain antifungal medications and inhibitors used in prostate cancer treatment can inhibit CYP17A1, reducing androgen synthesis.

Telomerase is an enzyme complex crucial for the maintenance of telomeres, the protective caps at the ends of chromosomes. By adding telomeric repeats to the ends of chromosomes, telomerase plays a key role in cellular immortality, a feature commonly exploited by cancer cells to proliferate indefinitely. Understanding the activators of telomerase provides insights into the mechanisms of cellular aging, cancer development, and potential therapeutic targets.

The human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) component of telomerase is its catalytic subunit, and its expression is a primary activator of telomerase activity. Genetic mutations or alterations in the regulation of the hTERT gene can lead to increased telomerase activity. Epigenetic modifications, such as the methylation of CpG islands in the hTERT promoter region, can activate hTERT expression, thereby increasing telomerase activity. This mechanism is frequently observed in various cancers. In some cell types, estrogen has been shown to upregulate telomerase activity, possibly through estrogen receptor-mediated activation of hTERT transcription. Several growth factors, including epidermal growth factor (EGF) and insulin-like growth factor (IGF), have been implicated in the upregulation of telomerase activity, likely through signaling pathways that result in the transcriptional activation of hTERT. The Myc oncogene can activate telomerase by directly binding to the hTERT promoter, enhancing hTERT transcription and telomerase activity. This action contributes to the immortalization of cancer cells. Activation of the Wnt signaling pathway can lead to increased hTERT expression and telomerase activation, promoting cellular proliferation and tumorigenesis. The inactivation of tumor suppressor genes, such as PTEN and p53, has been associated with increased telomerase activity in cancer cells, facilitating their unchecked growth. Infection with high-risk strains of HPV can lead to the expression of viral oncoproteins E6 and E7, which in turn can stimulate telomerase activity, contributing to the development of cervical and other cancers. Interleukin-6 (IL-6): IL-6, a cytokine involved in inflammation, has been shown to promote telomerase activity in certain cancer cells, linking inflammation to telomere maintenance and cellular immortalization.

Understanding the activators of telomerase has significant implications for cancer research and the development of anti-cancer therapies. Inhibiting telomerase activity in cancer cells is a promising strategy for limiting their growth and proliferation. Additionally, research into telomerase activation in normal cells offers potential insights into aging and regenerative medicine.

Understanding the activators of androgen-synthesizing enzymes is crucial for managing disorders related to androgen excess or deficiency. Therapeutic strategies often aim to modulate these activators or directly inhibit the enzymes to achieve desired androgen levels.

ACTVATORS OF PROSTATE CANCER

Androgens (Testosterone and Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)) are the most significant activators of prostate cancer growth are androgens. They activate enzymes like 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone to the more potent DHT. DHT then binds to androgen receptors, stimulating the growth of prostate cancer cells.

BRCA1/2 Mutations are not only linked to an increased risk of breast and ovarian cancers but also prostate cancer. They impair the body’s ability to repair damaged DNA, potentially leading to unchecked cell growth. BRCA mutations can activate PARP enzymes, involved in DNA repair, making PARP inhibitors a targeted treatment strategy. The PTEN gene acts as a tumour suppressor by regulating cell division and survival. Loss or mutation of PTEN can activate the AKT pathway, promoting cell survival and proliferation in prostate cancer. TMPRSS2-ERG Gene Fusion is present in a significant percentage of prostate cancers. It can lead to the overexpression of ERG, which promotes cancer cell proliferation and survival.

High-fat diets and consumption of red meat have been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, possibly through the activation of inflammatory pathways and oxidative stress, which can, in turn, activate cancer-promoting enzymes. Adipose tissue can produce estrogens from androgens through the action of the aromatase enzyme, potentially contributing to prostate cancer progression. Obesity is also linked to chronic inflammation, which may activate various signalling pathways involved in cancer development.

Conditions leading to chronic inflammation in the prostate, such as prostatitis or sexually transmitted infections, may result in oxidative stress. This can activate signalling pathways and enzymes that promote DNA damage and cancer development.

The activation of enzymes involved in prostate cancer is influenced by a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Understanding these activators not only helps in identifying the mechanisms of prostate cancer progression but also in developing targeted interventions. For example, therapies that reduce androgen levels or block androgen receptors can inhibit the activation of critical enzymes and pathways involved in prostate cancer growth. Moreover, recognizing the role of lifestyle and environmental factors offers opportunities for preventive strategies. Ongoing research into these activators continues to open new avenues for the treatment and prevention of prostate cancer.

Treatment depends on various factors, including the cancer’s stage, the patient’s age, overall health, and personal preferences. Monitoring the cancer closely without immediate treatment for early-stage, low-risk cancer is very important. Removal of the prostate gland (prostatectomy) is a common treatment for localized cancer. Radiation Therapy uses high-energy rays or particles to kill cancer cells. Hormone Therapy is used to block the production or action of testosterone, which can cause cancer cells to grow. Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill rapidly growing cells, including cancer cells, and is typically used when the cancer has spread outside the prostate. Immunotherapy uses the body’s immune system to fight the cancer. Targeted therapy focuses on specific weaknesses present within the cancer cells, such as certain genetic mutations.

The prognosis for prostate cancer varies widely. Early-stage prostate cancer has a very high survival rate, with the majority of men living for many years after diagnosis. The survival rates decrease as the cancer advances but have been improving over time due to better screening and treatment methods.

Prostate cancer’s impact can be significantly mitigated through early detection and effective treatment. Awareness of the risk factors and symptoms, combined with regular screening for those at higher risk, is crucial. As with many forms of cancer, the approach to treatment is highly personalized, taking into account the patient’s specific circumstances to optimize outcomes. Advances in medical research continue to improve the prognosis and quality of life for men with prostate cancer, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and innovation in this field.

MIT APPROACH TO THERAPEUTICS OF PROSTATE CANCER

FUNDAMENTAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MOLECULAR DRUGS AND MOLECULAR IMPRINTED DRUGS

DRUG MOLECULES act as therapeutic agents due to their CHEMICAL properties. It is an allopathic action, same way as any allopathic or ayurvedic drug works. They can interact with biological molecules and produce short term or longterm harmful effects, exactly similar to allopathic drugs. Please keep this point in mind when you have a temptation to use mother tinctures, low potencies or biochemic salts which are MOLECULAR drugs.

On the other hand, MOLECULAR IMPRINTS contained in homeopathic drugs potentized above 12 or avogadro limit act as therapeutic agents by working as artificial ligand binds for pathogenic molecues due to their conformational properties by a biological mechanism that is truely homeopathic.

Understanding the fundamental difference between molecular imprinted drugs regarding their biological mechanism of actions, is very important.

MIT or Molecular Imprints Therapeutics refers to a scientific hypothesis that proposes a rational model for biological mechanism of homeopathic therapeutics.

According to MIT hypothesis, potentization involves a process of ‘molecular imprinting’, where in the conformational details of individual drug molecules are ‘imprinted or engraved as hydrogen- bonded three dimensional nano-cavities into a supra-molecular matrix of water and ethyl alcohol, through a process of molecular level ‘host-guest’ interactions. These ‘molecular imprints’ are the active principles of post-avogadro dilutions used as homeopathic drugs. Due to ‘conformational affinity’, molecular imprints can act as ‘artificial key holes or ligand binds’ for the specific drug molecules used for imprinting, and for all pathogenic molecules having functional groups ‘similar’ to those drug molecules. When used as therapeutic agents, molecular imprints selectively bind to the pathogenic molecules having conformational affinity and deactivate them, thereby relieving the biological molecules from the inhibitions or blocks caused by pathogenic molecules.

According to MIT hypothesis, this is the biological mechanism of high dilution therapeutics involved in homeopathic cure. According to MIT hypothesis, ‘Similia Similibus Curentur’ means, diseases expressed through a particular group of symptoms could be cured by ‘molecular imprints’ forms of drug substances, which in ‘molecular’ or crude forms could produce ‘similar’ groups of symptoms in healthy individuals. ‘Similarity’ of drug symptoms and diseaes indicates ‘similarity’ of pathological molecular inhibitions caused by drug molecules and pathogenic molecules, which in turn indicates conformational ‘similarity’ of functional groups of drug molecules and pathogenic molecules. Since molecular imprints of ‘similar’ molecules can bind to ‘similar ligand molecules by conformational affinity, they can act as the therapeutics agents when applied as indicated by ‘similarity of symptoms. Nobody in the whole history could so far propose a hypothesis about homeopathy as scientific, rational and perfect as MIT explaining the molecular process involved in potentization, and the biological mechanism involved in ‘similia similibus- curentur, in a way fitting well to modern scientific knowledge system.

If symptoms expressed in a particular disease condition as well as symptoms produced in a healthy individual by a particular drug substance were similar, it means the disease-causing molecules and the drug molecules could bind to same biological targets and produce similar molecular errors, which in turn means both of them have similar functional groups or molecular conformations. This phenomenon of competitive relationship between similar chemical molecules in binding to similar biological targets scientifically explains the fundamental homeopathic principle Similia Similibus Curentur.

Practically, MIT or Molecular Imprints Therapeutics is all about identifying the specific target-ligand ‘key-lock’ mechanism involved in the molecular pathology of the particular disease, procuring the samples of concerned ligand molecules or molecules that can mimic as the ligands by conformational similarity, preparing their molecular imprints through a process of homeopathic potentization upto 30c potency, and using that preparation as therapeutic agent.

Since individual molecular imprints contained in drugs potentized above avogadro limit cannot interact each other or interfere in the normal interactions between biological molecules and their natural ligands, and since they can act only as artificial binding sites for specific pathogentic molecules having conformational affinity, there cannot by any adverse effects or reduction in medicinal effects even if we mix two or more potentized drugs together, or prescribe them simultaneously- they will work.

Drugs useful in MIT therapeutics of Prostate Cancer:

Dihydrotestosterone 30, Diethylstilbesterol 30, Tabaccum 30, Cadmium 30, Arsenic Album 30, Plumbum Met 30, Prostaglandin 30, Insulin 30, Luteinizing Hormone 30, ACTH 30,Human Papilloma Virus 30, Interleukin-6 (IL 6) 30, Nicotinum 30

Author: Chandran Nambiar K C

I am Chandran Nambiar K C Author, REDEFINING HOMEOPATHY Managing Director, Fedarin Mialbs Private Limited Developer. SIMILIMUM ULTRA Homeopathic Software I am not a scientist, academician, scholar, professional homeopath or anybody with 'big credentials', but an old lay man, a retired government servant, who accidentally happened to fall into the deep waters of the great ocean of homeopathic knowledge during his fiery teenage years, and was destined to live a whole life exploring the mysteries of that wonderful world with unending enthusiasm. My interest in homeopathy happened very accidentally when I was only 20 years old UNDERGRADUATE ZOOLOGY student, through a constant relationship with a local practitioner who happened to be father of my classmate. I was a regular visitor in his clinic, where from I started reading BOERICKE MATERIA MEDICA and other homeopathic books, which helped me to cure myself my troublesome asthma that have been haunting me since my childhood days. I became a voracious reader of homeopathy.

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