Scientists hunt for the most stubborn prostate cancer cells inside human tumors

NCT ID NCT02095249

Ongoing Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University Health Network, Toronto Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study looks at prostate cancer tissue from men undergoing prostate removal surgery to find cells that may be especially aggressive and resistant to treatment. Researchers give a special dye (pimonidazole) before surgery to mark oxygen-starved areas, then analyze the removed prostate for stem-like cells and low-oxygen zones. The goal is to understand which cells drive cancer recurrence and spread, so future treatments can target them more effectively.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Pimonidazole
What this could lead to: If successful, this could help identify which prostate cancer cells are most resistant to treatment, pointing toward more targeted therapies.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage observational study in 39 men. It aims to understand biology, not test a treatment, so direct patient benefits are uncertain.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

prostate cancer

As listed by the trial registrant

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

PROSTATE CANCER

Contacts and locations

Locations

University Health Network

Toronto, Ontario, M5G2M9, Canada

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