Diagnostic molecular markers predicting aggressive potential in low-grade prostate cancer

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Molecular Biology
• Biomarker Discovery

Background:

• Clinical nomograms are used to predict prostate cancer (CaP) progression but may lack accuracy for low-grade tumors.
• Distinguishing aggressive potential in low-grade CaP is essential for appropriate patient management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diagnostic potential of three molecular markers: ROCK1, RUNX3, and miR-301a.
• To determine if these markers can identify low-grade CaP tumors likely to progress.
• To assess if incorporating these markers improves existing clinical nomograms.

Main Methods:

• Real-time PCR and immunohistochemical analysis were performed on 118 serum and needle biopsy specimens.
• ROCK1, RUNX3, and miR-301a expression profiles were assessed.
• Expression levels were compared between CaP (Gleason 6 and 7) and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) samples.

Main Results:

• ROCK1 and miR-301a expression were significantly higher in Gleason 6 and 7 CaP compared to BPH.
• RUNX3 expression showed an inverse trend compared to ROCK1 and miR-301a.
• The combined analysis of the three markers significantly improved the diagnostic accuracy of clinical nomograms and correlated with disease progression.

Conclusions:

• ROCK1, RUNX3, and miR-301a can identify an aggressive phenotype in low-grade CaP.
• These molecular markers predict disease progression at the time of diagnosis.
• Inclusion of these markers enhances the predictive capability for low-grade prostate cancer.