Researchers have discovered that the primary form of prostate cancer can develop in two unique ways within the body. This finding offers potential for better identification of patients who may require treatment.

One in eight men will develop prostate cancer in their lifetime, making it the most prevalent type of cancer among men. The majority of prostate cancers are adenocarcinomas, a type of cancer that starts in the gland cells lining certain internal organs. Although prostate cancer can be fatal, many patients have a low risk.

Prof David Wedge of Manchester Cancer Research Centre, who led the study, stated that the primary challenge in prostate cancer is to identify the 15% of men at risk of developing aggressive cancers that may metastasize to other organs and ultimately result in mortality.

The person stated that targeting specific men for treatment could improve the effectiveness of the treatment and avoid unnecessary side effects for the majority of men.

Wedge and his team have discovered a novel method for categorizing adenocarcinomas, which could aid them in achieving this goal.

A study published in Cell Genomics reveals the sequencing of 159 patients’ genomes who were diagnosed with prostate adenocarcinoma. The researchers employed three methods, including artificial intelligence, to examine patterns in the genomes such as DNA damage and the sequence of genetic changes.

All three methods produced the same outcome, indicating that prostate cancer can be classified into two distinct groups or “evotypes” based on their progression and underlying mechanisms in the body.

Important to note, during analysis of post-treatment blood tests, researchers observed that patients with one evotype were twice as likely to exhibit signs of disease recurrence compared to those with the other.

According to Wedge, it is common for men to have metastasis, meaning the cancer has already spread to other organs.

The research team states that their results indicate the potential use of a genetic test to identify the aggressiveness of adenocarcinoma in prostate patients. This would allow for more personalized treatment and potentially earlier intervention.

According to Wedge, it is crucial to investigate if there is a correlation between the type of evotype and factors like the patient’s age and ethnicity. The team is also examining the potential relationship between evotypes and other types of cancer.

Consultant oncologist specializing in prostate cancer at the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre, Prof Joe O’Sullivan, expressed his support for the study conducted by researchers in Belfast.

He stated that recognizing two sub-types of prostate cancer based on the genetic evolution pathway could aid in treatment stratification and potentially lead to new opportunities for drug development.

Source: theguardian.com