New therapies for castrate-resistant prostate cancer

INTRODUCTION: Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in men in the USA, and most of these deaths will occur as a result of castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) that has progressed despite androgen deprivation therapy. There has been better understanding of castration resistance and molecular mechanisms of prostate cancer progression recently, leading to new treatment strategies. AREAS COVERED: This review focuses on emerging and new therapies for castrate-resistant prostate cancer, including hormonal therapy, immunotherapy and cytotoxic agents. EXPERT OPINION: New treatment strategies have been developed in recent years and, with improved understanding of advanced CRPC, additional targeted treatments are expected in the near future. Further cost effectiveness research of these treatments is warranted before dissemination of these promising agents.