In a nutshell
The present study evaluated a new biomarker that could be used to predict recurrence of prostate cancer after surgical removal of the prostate gland (prostatectomy). Three proteins called Sp1/Sp3/FLIP, combined with the Gleason score were found highly prognostic in the prediction of recurrence, and can therefore help guiding the initial treatment for prostate cancer.
Some background
Prostatectomy is an accepted treatment approach for prostate cancer which is confined to the prostate gland, that can potentially cure the disease. However, in some patients, cancer progression is not successfully prevented and rising PSA levels following a prostatectomy indicate disease recurrence. A biomarker is a specific gene or protein that serves as an indicator of a biological state, such as cancer progression or recurrence. Currently, the traditional biomarkers that guide initial treatment include the Gleason score (a tumor grading system), the size and location of the prostate tumor (pathological stage) and pre-surgical PSA levels.
Methods & findings
64 patients who had undergone radical prostatectomy as primary treatment were categorized into a recurrence group (30 patients) versus non-recurrence group (34 patients), as ascertained over a 5 year follow-up period. Prostate tissue samples from these 64 men were then analyzed, and the Gleason score as well as the three new biomarkers (Sp1/Sp3/FLIP) were obtained independently in both patient groups. The authors observed significant differences for Gleason scores and all three biomarkers between the recurrence and non-recurrence group.
Combined, these four markers demonstrated a 93% predictive accuracy for PSA failure (recurrent disease) and non-failure (successful intervention). The authors concluded that this “biomarker signature” can help to distinguish patients who are likely to benefit from prostatectomy and those who benefit from an alternative (systemic) or complementary treatment approach (such as post-operative radiation).
The bottom line
This study identified three proteins – namely FLIP, Sp1 and Sp3 – whose blood levels may serve as a useful adjunct to facilitate the prediction of poor outcome prior to a surgical intervention.
The fine print
Although the study involved a relatively small number of patients, the results for the described “biomarker signature” seem convincing.
What’s next?
Talk to your doctor about the availability of testing for these new biomarkers prior to initiation of surgical therapy.
Published By :
PLOS ONE
Date :
Sep 13, 2012
