About research group

Research interest

The goal of the research group is to identify recurrent genetic alterations in prostate cancer using modern molecular genetic tools, including microarray technologies. It has now become evident that genetic alterations pinpoint weak spots of cancers. Thus, finding the common genetic alterations is an important step in the development of better drugs. In addition of trying to identify novel genetic aberrations, the research group has a strong interest towards androgen receptor (AR) gene, amplification of which was first described by the research group. It is now evident that current antiandrogens are not efficient enough to suppress the AR mediated signaling. AR itself is a potent therapy target, but also downstream genes or AR co-factors might provide means for therapeutic interventions. The MBPCG aims at identification of these critical points in AR signaling.

Translational Prostate Cancer Research Program (TPCRP)

The general goal of the TPCRP is to form close interaction between basic scientists and clinicians to provide an excellent basis for translational research and education. The unique collection of population-based clinical materials and models with complementary expertise provides exceptionally strong bases to study prostate cancer. A special emphasis will also be in training of basic scientists and clinicians to understand each other and to foster clinical researcher careers.

ProspeR - Prostate cancer: profiling and evaluation of ncRNA

ProspeR is a collaborative, small or medium-scale focused research project, coordinated by Prof. Visakorpi and subsidised by the European Commission through the 7th Framework Program. It aims to elucidate the role of non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) in the development of prostate cancer and evaluate the utility of ncRNAs as diagnostic and prognostic tools and as therapy targets in clinical practice.

Current sources of external funding:

European Union, Academy of Finland, Cancer Society of Finland, Medical Research Fund of Tampere University Hospital (EVO), Sigrid Juselius Foundation, Reino Lahtikari Foundation

Molecular Biology of Prostate Cancer Group 2012