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Endothelin receptor antagonists

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Abstract

Hormone refractory prostate cancer remains true to its middle name: it is largely refractory to attempts to delay its progression. New targets and new therapies are demanded. Through a review of the available literature on endothelin and several preclinical observations, the endothelin axis has emerged as one such target. In phase II and III clinical trials of atrasentan, a potent and selective endothelin receptor A subtype (ETA) antagonist, disease progression was delayed in some men. This well tolerated, oral agent may help convert advanced prostate cancer to a more chronic disease. This review will discuss the endothelin axis, preclinical rationale and some of the available clinical trial data on this promising new approach.

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  1. Department of Urology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, 5200 Centre Ave, Suite 209, Pittsburgh, PA 15232, USA

    Joel B. Nelson

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Nelson, J.B. Endothelin receptor antagonists. World J Urol 23, 19–27 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00345-004-0478-9

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