A known regulator of prostate epithelial differentiation, Nkx3-1, is shown here to mark a stem cell population that functions during prostate regeneration. Furthermore, in mice in which the Pten tumour suppressor gene is deleted in a group of rare cells that express Nkx3-1 in the absence of testicular androgens, termed CARN cells, there is rapid carcinoma formation after andogen-mediated regeneration. These observations indicate that prostate cancer can originate in CARN cells.
- Xi Wang
- Marianna Kruithof-de Julio
- Michael M. Shen
