Can a short course of hormone therapy before prostate surgery reveal new clues about cancer?

NCT ID NCT01542021

First seen Jul 29, 2026 · Last updated Jul 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This trial investigates how a single injection of degarelix, a drug that lowers testosterone, affects prostate cancer cells when given just days before prostate removal surgery. Researchers aim to measure changes in cell growth (Ki-67 levels) by comparing biopsy and surgical tissue samples. The study enrolls men with intermediate- or high-risk prostate cancer who are scheduled for prostatectomy. While participants are not expected to benefit directly, the findings may guide the development of future targeted therapies.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance
degarelix injection
What this could lead to
If successful, this could help researchers develop better targeted treatments for prostate cancer by understanding how hormone therapy affects cancer cells.
What could go wrong
This is a small, early-stage study not designed to show direct patient benefit. The drug is given only days before surgery, so any effects on cancer cells may be limited.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

    New York, New York, 10065, United States

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