Methods for the diagnosis and treatment of metastatic prostate tumors

摘要

The present invention is directed to methods for the identification of a prostate cancer cell that has metastatic potential or a cell that is or is derived from a secondary prostate tumor metastasis by screening for the expression of flt-4, the cellular receptor of vascular endothelial growth factor-C and -D ("VEGF-C", "VEGF-D"). The present invention is also directed to methods for treating, inhibiting or preventing secondary prostate tumor metastases by inhibiting the expression or activity of flt-4,e.g., inhibiting flt-4: VEGF-C/D complex formation (binding), by administration of a therapeutic. Compositions useful in such methods are also provided.