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Updated: Sep 21, 2025

A Bioluminescent and Fluorescent Orthotopic Syngeneic Murine Model of Androgen-dependent and Castration-resistant Prostate Cancer
Published on: March 6, 2018
Multiple pathogens and prostate cancer
James S Lawson1, Wendy K Glenn2
1School of Biotechnology and Biomolecular Sciences, University of New South Wales, Sydney, 2052, Australia. james.lawson@unsw.edu.au.
Background:
The aim of this review is to consider whether multiple pathogens have roles in prostate cancer.
Methods:
We have reviewed case control studies in which infectious pathogens in prostate cancer were compared to normal and benign prostate tissues. We also reviewed additional evidence from relevant published articles.
Results:
We confirmed that high risk human papilloma viruses are a probable cause of prostate cancer. We judged Escherichia coli, Cutibacterium acnes, Neisseria gonorrhoea, Herpes simplex, Epstein Barr virus and Mycoplasmas as each having possible but unproven roles in chronic prostatic inflammation and prostate cancer. We judged Cytomegalovirus, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis and the Polyoma viruses as possible but unlikely to have a role in prostate cancer.
Conclusions And Actions:
The most influential cause of prostate cancer appears to be infection induced chronic inflammation. Given the high prevalence of prostate cancer it is important for action to can be taken without waiting for additional conclusive evidence. These include: 1. Encouragement of all boys (as well as girls) to have HPV vaccines 2. The vigorous use of antibiotics to treat all bacterial pathogens identified in the urogenital tract 3. The use of antiviral medications to control herpes infections 4. Education about safe sexual practices.
Insights
Infection-induced chronic inflammation is a key factor in prostate cancer. Early action, including HPV vaccination and prompt treatment of urogenital infections, is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Infectious Diseases
- Urology
Background:
- Prostate cancer is a significant health concern.
- The role of infectious pathogens in prostate cancer development is under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on the involvement of multiple pathogens in prostate cancer.
- To assess the potential contribution of various infections to prostate cancer etiology.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of case-control studies comparing pathogens in prostate cancer tissues versus normal/benign tissues.
- Inclusion of additional relevant published literature.
Main Results:
- High-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are confirmed as a probable cause of prostate cancer.
- Escherichia coli, Cutibacterium acnes, Neisseria gonorrhoea, Herpes simplex virus, Epstein-Barr virus, and Mycoplasmas have possible but unproven roles.
- Cytomegalovirus, Chlamydia trachomatis, Trichomonas vaginalis, and Polyomaviruses are considered unlikely contributors.
Conclusions:
- Infection-induced chronic inflammation is the most influential factor in prostate cancer.
- Proactive measures are crucial due to prostate cancer's high prevalence.
- Recommendations include HPV vaccination for all genders, prompt antibiotic treatment for bacterial pathogens, antiviral therapy for herpes infections, and education on safe sexual practices.
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