Exploring the role of enzalutamide in combination with radiation therapy: An in vitro study

Abstract

Background/Aim: Androgen receptor plays a key role in prostate cancer development and is a causative agent of its radio-resistance. The present study investigated the potential radio-sensitizing effect of enzalutamide, a second-generation anti-androgen, in human prostate cancer cells. Materials and Methods: The radio-sensitizing effect of enzalutamide was assessed in the androgen-dependent LNCaP cells and the androgen-independent PC3 cells by clonogenic assay and γ-H2AX assay. Results: Enzalutamide-treated LNCaP cells showed a significant decrease of cell survival at all radiation doses tested. An increased number of γ-H2AX-positive nuclei was observed, suggesting a possible impairment of the DNA repair machinery. Conversely, enzalutamide did not exhibit a significant radio-sensitizing effect on PC3 cells. Conclusion: The combination of enzalutamide with ionizing radiation significantly improves radio-sensitivity of hormone-dependent LNCaP cells. Translated in the clinical practice, our results may help to find additional strategies to improve effectiveness of radiotherapy.