Gene expression profiles of rat tissues surrounding Vcap xenograft tumors with chemical or physical denervation.

We propose that nerves play a trophic function for epithelium, not only during development, but also in adult homeostasis. Hence, nerves are likely key in cancer progression. Furthermore nerves are a functional regulator of prostate cancer genesis and progression to malignancy. A further understanding of the role of nerves in prostate cancer progression and a dissection of specific mechanisms would aid in identifying potential therapeutic targets that are centered on cancer-nerve interactions. To address this in detail, we have examined the effects of nerve function in the VCaP prostate cancer xenograft model and have elucidated differential gene expression profiles in this model.