Kaustubh Datta, Ph.D.

The long-term objective of our research project is to understand the mechanism of angiogenesis and lymphangiogenesis and its role in prostate cancer metastasis. Recent studies correlate the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor-C (VEGF-C), an important growth factor for lymphangiogenesis, with the regional lymph node metastasis in human patients. Currently, we will focus on the androgen-dependent regulation of VEGF-C and its potential functions in promoting prostate cancer metastasis. The knowledge that will be generated from our research studies will not only help to elucidate the molecular mechanism controlling the transition of prostate cancer to a more metastatic phenotype but will also help to develop an effective therapeutic regimen against this stage of the disease.