Molecular Mechanisms of Resistance to Hormonal Therapy for Prostate Cancer

A postdoctoral position is available in the laboratory of Dr. Nima Sharifi in the Division of Hematology/Oncology at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

This laboratory is focused on molecular mechanisms of androgen receptor (AR) gain-of-function that lead to resistance to androgen deprivation therapy and the translational relevance thereof. Areas of interest in this laboratory include:

1) Metabolic and genetic changes required for androgen synthesis.
2) Animal models of advanced prostate cancer for translational and therapeutic studies.
3) Defining targets for the development of new pharmacologic therapies.

We have recently discovered that prostate cancer becomes resistant to hormonal therapy by the synthesis of dihydrotestosterone through a pathway that circumvents testosterone, instead requiring 5α-androstanedione, a previously underappreciated intermediate metabolite. This metabolic pathway occurs commonly in all models and patient tumors tested (Chang, et al. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 2011 Aug 16;108(33):13728-33). We have also shown that blocking the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase stops the androgen-response from adrenal precursors, validating this as a potential pharmacologic target for the treatment of advanced prostate cancer (Evaul, et al. Endocrinology. 2010. 151(8):3514-20). For further information on our work, refer to the following: http://www4.utsouthwestern.edu/sharifilab/index.html

UT Southwestern Medical Center is the home of four Nobel Laureates, 19 members of the National Academy of Sciences and 18 Members of the Institute of Medicine.

The candidate should hold a doctoral degree with a background in metabolism, cancer biology, or endocrinology. Candidates with an interest in the position should send their cv and contact information for 3 references to:

Nima Sharifi, M.D.
Assistant Professor
Division of Hematology/Oncology
UT Southwestern Medical Center
5323 Harry Hines Blvd.
Dallas, TX 75390-8852

nima.sharifi@utsouthwestern.edu

UT Southwestern Medical Center is an Equal Opportunity, Affirmative Action Employer