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Updated: Feb 10, 2026
11:29
miRNA Expression Analyses in Prostate Cancer Clinical Tissues
Published on: September 8, 2015
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Vitamins, metabolomics, and prostate cancer
Alison M Mondul1, Stephanie J Weinstein2, Demetrius Albanes3
1Department of Epidemiology, University of Michigan School of Public Health, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
World Journal of Urology
|June 25, 2016
Summary
Micronutrients like vitamin E may lower prostate cancer risk, but vitamin A and D might increase it. Metabolomic profiling reveals specific metabolites linked to reduced aggressive prostate cancer risk.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Nutritional Science
- Metabolomics
Background:
- Micronutrients, particularly vitamins E, A, and D, have been extensively studied for their potential influence on prostate cancer risk.
- Metabolomic profiling offers a novel approach to identify biomarkers for prostate cancer etiology, detection, and prevention.
- Understanding the biological mechanisms of vitamin influence on prostate cancer is crucial for developing effective preventive strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review existing research on micronutrients (vitamins E, A, D) and prostate cancer risk.
- To explore the utility of metabolomic profiling in identifying prostate cancer biomarkers.
- To elucidate the mechanisms by which vitamins impact prostate cancer risk.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of clinical, cohort, nested case-control studies, and randomized controlled trials on vitamin E, A, D, and prostate cancer.
- Analysis of metabolomic data related to vitamin phenotypes.
- Prospective metabolomic profiling of fasting serum samples.
Main Results:
- Higher vitamin E levels correlate with reduced prostate cancer risk, supported by genetic data, though supplementation trials show mixed results.
- Beta-carotene supplementation (in smokers) and elevated levels of retinol and 25-hydroxy-vitamin D are associated with increased prostate cancer risk.
- Reduced levels of lipid and energy/TCA cycle metabolites (e.g., inositol-1-phosphate, citrate) in serum were significantly linked to a lower risk of aggressive prostate cancer.
Conclusions:
- Emerging evidence suggests a complex role for micronutrients and metabolites in prostate cancer development and risk.
- Further research is needed to clarify the adverse effects of vitamins D and A on prostate cancer risk.
- The potential of low-dose vitamin E supplementation as a preventive measure warrants continued investigation.
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