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Adaptation of MALDI-TOF MS Technique for Tracking Changes in the Urinary Microbiome During and After Radiotherapy for
Michał Złoch1, Ewelina Sibińska1, Fernanda Monedeiro1
1Centre for Modern Interdisciplinary Technologies, Institute of Advanced Studies, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, Torun, Poland.
Cancer Management and Research
|March 26, 2026
Summary
Radiotherapy for prostate cancer alters the urinary microbiome, decreasing diversity initially then recovering. Glucose levels significantly impact these microbial changes, suggesting monitoring may aid post-treatment balance.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Metabolomics
Background:
- The urinary microbiome's role in prostate cancer radiotherapy complications is unknown.
- Understanding urinary microbiome dynamics during and after radiotherapy is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize and monitor urinary microbiome changes during prostate cancer radiotherapy.
- Utilize matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) for microbial identification.
Main Methods:
- Collected urine and blood samples from 88 prostate cancer patients at six time points during and after radiotherapy.
- Identified microorganisms using MALDI-TOF MS after culturing under diverse conditions.
- Statistically analyzed associations between microbial profiles, radiotherapy stages, and biochemical parameters.
Main Results:
- 1773 microbial isolates identified in 89% of urine samples; 79% polymicrobial.
- Microbiota dominated by *Staphylococcus*, *Micrococcus*, *Enterococcus*, *Kocuria*, and *Corynebacterium*.
- Urinary microbiome diversity decreased at RT's end, gradually recovering post-treatment; changes correlated with urinary and blood glucose levels.
Conclusions:
- Radiotherapy induces dynamic urinary microbiome shifts, including initial diversity decline and subsequent recolonization.
- Urinary and blood glucose levels significantly influence microbial composition, indicating metabolic modulation of radiotherapy-related shifts.
- Monitoring glucose may help maintain urinary microbial balance after radiotherapy for prostate cancer.
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