Gene-Based Screening Test for Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men in the U.S. For years, initial detection of possible prostate cancer has relied on the prostate specific antigen (PSA) test, digital rectal exam, urine test, and transrectal ultrasound. (Prostate Cancer Institute) Unfortunately, these tests often have high false-positive or false-negative rates. Gene-based testing for prostate cancer may improve the positive predictive value of screening tests and provide additional information for the development of new therapies.
Researchers at the Center for Prostate Disease Research, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences have found that the ETS-Related Gene (ERG), a proto-oncogene, is frequently overexpressed in prostate cancer cells. ERG along with two other genes, DD3 and AMACR, were associated with prostate cancer in 98% of prostate cancer patients. ERG also appears to be associated with recurrence-free survival of prostate cancer patients after radical prostatectomy. (Medical News Today, June 11, 2005)
“This is a significant new finding, but it will take time to translate this into clinically useful products. The most likely first potential clinical application could be improved detection of prostate cancer by providing a novel and functionally relevant biomarker. However, the exploration of the therapeutic potential of ERG is equally important,” said Dr. Robert Vessella from the University of Washington, Seattle, who is one of the pioneers in developing new diagnostic and prognostic cellular and molecular markers for prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer is a disease of aging and it is hypothesized that all men will develop prostate cancer if they live long enough. Perhaps earlier detection of prostate cancer will help more men live longer cancer-free lives.
Related Stories
POSTED IN: Genetics of Disease
.gif)
0 opinions for Gene-Based Screening Test for Prostate Cancer
No one has left a comment yet. You know what this means, right? You could be first!
Have an opinion? Leave a comment: