Non-Invasive Prostate Cancer Screening Test Introduced

Overview of Prostate Cancer Statistics

A novel non-invasive screening test for prostate cancer utilizes a unique biomarker detectable in urine samples. Prostate cancer ranks as the second most commonly diagnosed cancer among men and is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally. In 2018, prostate cancer accounted for 7.1% of all cancer diagnoses worldwide. The likelihood of developing prostate cancer increases significantly in men over the age of 65. Despite the severity of the disease, most men diagnosed with prostate cancer do not succumb to it. Survival rates vary, with figures reaching 98% in the USA, around 83% in the European Union, and 76% in Eastern countries. These higher survival rates may be linked to the disease’s typically slow progression, which enhances the potential for early detection through regular screenings.

Current Screening Methods and Limitations

Standard prostate cancer screening involves measuring levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a protein produced by prostate gland cells. Elevated PSA levels are associated with an increased likelihood of prostate cancer; however, they can also be influenced by various non-cancerous factors, rendering PSA an insufficient diagnostic tool. When PSA levels are found to be high, a prostate biopsy—an invasive procedure—is often necessary to confirm a prostate cancer diagnosis. These limitations highlight the pressing need for unique and easily detectable biomarkers for prostate cancer.

Discovery of a Unique Urine Biomarker

Research Findings on KLK4-KLKP1 Fusion Biomarker

A study published in Neoplasia has identified a distinctive biomarker that can be detected in the urine of patients. This biomarker arises from the gene fusion of two elements: the protein-coding gene KLK4 and the pseudogene KLKP1. The resulting fusion generates a protein product that is detectable in both urine samples and needle biopsy tissue samples. Researchers found that the KLK4-KLKP1 fusion is specific to prostate tissue and is associated with cancer.

Biomarker’s Role in Prostate Cancer Growth

The researchers conducted experiments indicating that this fusion gene may play a role in prostate cancer development, as it appears to enhance growth, invasion, and tumor formation in non-cancerous epithelial cells. Dr. Palanisamy, the study’s lead researcher, stated, “Given the unique feature of this fusion, prostate cancer specific expression, oncogenic properties and noninvasive detection, this novel gene fusion has the potential to be used as a biomarker for early detection of prostate cancer and as a therapeutic target.” The research was conducted at the Vattikuti Urology Institute at the Henry Ford Health System in Detroit, USA.

Significance of Patient Representation in the Study

The study screened a cohort of 659 patients, including 250 African-American men, an important demographic as they face a heightened risk of developing prostate cancer. The KLK4-KLKP1 fusion gene was detected in 32% of the prostate cancer patients.

Implications of Unique Biomarkers in Prostate Cancer Treatment

Stratification of Patients Based on Molecular Mechanisms

Identifying unique biomarkers can aid in stratifying patients according to their underlying molecular mechanisms. Prostate cancer is recognized as a complex disease with variations in genetic factors, which correlate with different outcomes and disease progression. Stratifying patients based on genetic differences can lead to more precisely targeted therapies.

Advancements in Understanding Prostate Cancer

Dr. Craig Rogers, M.D., Chair of the Vattikuti Urology Institute, emphasized, “The differences of new biomarkers ultimately benefit our patients, as it advances our understanding of this complex disease and how to most effectively treat it.”

References

Chakravarthi BV, Dedigama-Arachchige P, Carskadon S, Sundaram SK, Li J, Wu KH, Chandrashekar DS, Peabody JO, Stricker H, Hwang C, Chitale DA, Williamson SR, Gupta NS, Navone NM, Rogers C, Menon M, Varambally S, Palanisamy N. Pseudogene Associated Recurrent Gene Fusion in Prostate Cancer. Neoplasia. 2019 Aug 22;21(10):989-1002.

Press release retrieved from https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2019-10/hfhs-sbi100219.php.

Prevalence of prostate cancer – Rawla P. (2019). Epidemiology of Prostate Cancer. World Journal of Oncology, 10(2), 63–89.