Evaluation of the role of low fat, high fiber diets and soy protein diets for the prevention and treatment of prostate cancer using the SCID mouse model. SCID mice are placed on different diets, human prostate cancer cell lines are injected subcutaneously, and tumor growth is monitored. Serum and tissue studies are performed to evaluate dietary effects on hormone levels, angiogenesis, proliferation and apoptosis. The laboratory has discovered a novel bioassay in which serum from patients receiving dietary interventions can be studied to evaluate the potential anticancer effects of the diets. This assay is also being used to evaluate the role of specific diets to inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis of human prostate cancer cell lines, as well as hormonal influences of dietary interventions. A database has been established and is being maintained at the West Los Angeles VA to compare clinical and pathologic variables in African American Men and Caucasian Men with prostate cancer. Archived tissue is being studied to evaluate molecular markers for predicting prognosis in these patient groups following radical prostatectomy."  

Urologic oncology, prostate cancer and general urology , To study the potential for low fat, high fiber diets, soy protein, and supplements to prevent the development and progression of prostate cancer.