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Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing
09:49

Oncogenic Gene Fusion Detection Using Anchored Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction Followed by Next Generation Sequencing

Published on: July 5, 2019

The discovery and application of gene fusions in prostate cancer

David S Morris1, Scott A Tomlins, James E Montie

  • 1Department of Urology, Comprehensive Cancer Center, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-0602, USA.

BJU International
|April 22, 2008
PubMed

Insights

TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions are key drivers in most prostate cancers. These specific gene fusions offer potential for improved prostate cancer detection, stratification, and targeted therapies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Genetics
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Chromosomal rearrangements are crucial in malignancies, leading to gene fusions that can be therapeutic targets.
  • The drug imatinib (Gleevec) targets the BCR-ABL fusion in chronic myeloid leukaemia, demonstrating the success of targeted therapies.
  • TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions are prevalent in prostate cancer, involving the TMPRSS2 gene and ETS family transcription factors.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the identification, characterization, and detection of TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions in prostate cancer.
  • To explore the role of these gene fusions in prostate cancer development.
  • To discuss novel 5' partners and their impact on ETS gene fusion classification.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions.
  • Analysis of studies identifying and characterizing these gene fusions.
  • Examination of data on the association between gene fusion status and patient outcomes.

Main Results:

  • TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions are identified in the majority of prostate cancers.
  • Different 5' partners define distinct classes of ETS gene fusions.
  • Conflicting reports exist regarding the correlation between gene fusion status and patient prognosis.

Conclusions:

  • TMPRSS2:ETS gene fusions are specifically found in prostate cancer, suggesting a causal role.
  • These gene fusions hold promise for prostate cancer detection and stratification.
  • Targeted therapeutic strategies may be developed based on these specific gene fusions.

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