The Usefulness of STEAP Proteins in Prostate Cancer Clinical Practice

Prostate cancer is a multifactorial disease and the second most common cancer diagnosed in men worldwide. The six transmembrane epithelial antigen of prostate (STEAP) proteins seem to be involved in prostate tumorigenesis. The STEAP proteins are differentially expressed in prostate cancer cells, and survival analysis reveal that prostate cancer patients with high levels of STEAP1 have poor survival outcomes. In contrast, high expression of STEAP4 offers a better prognosis. This chapter provides an overview of the role of STEAP proteins in prostate cancer. The structure, biological functions, and the potential prognostic significance of each of the four members of the STEAP family in prostate cancer are discussed.