Genomic variation in symptom expression in castrate-resistant prostate cancer
Janet Hardy1, Ristan Greer1, Karyn Foster2,3
1Mater Research Institute The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
BMJ Supportive & Palliative Care
|December 18, 2025
Summary
Genetic variations in cytokine expression may influence symptom severity in men with castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Identifying these genetic markers could enable earlier, more aggressive symptom management for prostate cancer patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Immunology
Background:
- Men with castrate-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) experience variable symptom severity.
- Symptom expression is influenced by both the disease and its treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between genetic variation in cytokine expression and symptom severity in CRPC patients.
- To identify potential genetic markers for predicting symptom burden.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, longitudinal cohort study across two Queensland sites.
- Collected patient characteristics, tumor burden, and treatment data.
- Assessed symptom severity 3-4 weekly for up to 6 assessments.
- Analyzed cytokine gene variants using single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).
Main Results:
- Symptom severity was not correlated with tumor burden or patient characteristics.
- Fifteen SNPs from seven genes showed a significant association with symptom severity.
- SNPs rs2069772 (Interleukin-2) and rs230494 (NF-kappa B) remained significant after adjustment.
Conclusions:
- Genetic variation in cytokine expression may contribute to symptom severity in CRPC.
- Early identification of susceptible individuals could lead to proactive symptom management.
- Further validation in larger cohorts is necessary to confirm these preliminary findings.
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