Nearly a decade has passed since the hypothesis that the insulin-like
growth factor (IGF) signalling cascade is involved in prostate
carcinogenesis. Recent research has outlined the association of
circulating IGF-1 and prostate cancer risk, and studies have elucidated
the implication of the IGF network in the early stages of prostate
carcinogenesis. Moreover, it has been suggested that IGF-1 induces
ligand-independent activation of the androgen receptor and enhances the
expression of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and urokinase plasminogen
activator. Furthermore, progression to androgen independence has been
linked to deregulation of the IGF-1-IGF-1-receptor axis. Here, we report
on updated studies that contribute to the unravelling of the IGF
‘circuitry’ in prostate cancer cells, with the anticipation that
relevant pharmacological ‘rewiring’ might offer novel therapeutic
regimens