1
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Wang X, Zhang L, Cheng L, Wang Y, Li M, Yu J, Ma Z, Ho PCL, Sethi G, Chen X, Wang L, Goh BC. Extracellular vesicle-derived biomarkers in prostate cancer care: Opportunities and challenges. Cancer Lett 2024; 601:217184. [PMID: 39142499 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.217184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent cancer in men worldwide, presenting a significant global public health challenge that necessitates early detection and personalized treatment. Recently, non-invasive liquid biopsy methods have emerged as promising tools to provide insights into the genetic landscape of PCa and monitor disease progression, aiding decision-making at all stages. Research efforts have concentrated on identifying liquid biopsy biomarkers to improve PCa diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment prediction. This article reviews recent research advances over the last five years utilizing extracellular vesicles (EVs) as a natural biomarker library for PCa, and discusses the clinical translation of EV biomarkers, including ongoing trials and key implementation challenges. The findings underscore the transformative role of liquid biopsy, particularly EV-based biomarkers, in revolutionizing PCa diagnosis, prediction, and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoxiao Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Limin Zhang
- Jingzhou Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jingzhou, 434000, China; The Third Clinical Medical College of Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434000, China
| | - Le Cheng
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Yufei Wang
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Mengnan Li
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Jiahui Yu
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Zhaowu Ma
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China
| | - Paul Chi-Lui Ho
- School of Pharmacy, Monash University Malaysia, 47500, Subang Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Gautam Sethi
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore
| | - Xiaoguang Chen
- School of Basic Medicine, Health Science Center, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, 434023, China.
| | - Lingzhi Wang
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore.
| | - Boon-Cher Goh
- NUS Center for Cancer Research (N2CR), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore; Department of Pharmacology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117600, Singapore; Cancer Science Institute of Singapore, National University of Singapore, Singapore, 117599, Singapore; Department of Haematology-Oncology, National University Cancer Institute, 119228, Singapore
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2
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Araujo-Abad S, Berna JM, Lloret-Lopez E, López-Cortés A, Saceda M, de Juan Romero C. Exosomes: from basic research to clinical diagnostic and therapeutic applications in cancer. Cell Oncol (Dordr) 2024:10.1007/s13402-024-00990-2. [PMID: 39298081 DOI: 10.1007/s13402-024-00990-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Cancer continues to pose a global threat despite potent anticancer drugs, often accompanied by undesired side effects. To enhance patient outcomes, sophisticated multifunctional approaches are imperative. Small extracellular vesicles (EVs), a diverse family of naturally occurring vesicles derived from cells, offer advantages over synthetic carriers. Among the EVs, the exosomes are facilitating intercellular communication with minimal toxicity, high biocompatibility, and low immunogenicity. Their tissue-specific targeting ability, mediated by surface molecules, enables precise transport of biomolecules to cancer cells. Here, we explore the potential of exosomes as innovative therapeutic agents, including cancer vaccines, and their clinical relevance as biomarkers for clinical diagnosis. We highlight the cargo possibilities, including nucleic acids and drugs, which make them a good delivery system for targeted cancer treatment and contrast agents for disease monitoring. Other general aspects, sources, and the methodology associated with therapeutic cancer applications are also reviewed. Additionally, the challenges associated with translating exosome-based therapies into clinical practice are discussed, together with the future prospects for this innovative approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salomé Araujo-Abad
- Cancer Research Group, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170124, Ecuador
| | - José Marcos Berna
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, Alicante, 03203, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda. Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Alicante, 03202, Spain
| | - Elena Lloret-Lopez
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, Alicante, 03203, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda. Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Alicante, 03202, Spain
| | - Andrés López-Cortés
- Cancer Research Group (CRG), Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de Las Américas, Quito, 170124, Ecuador
| | - Miguel Saceda
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, Alicante, 03203, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda. Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Alicante, 03202, Spain
| | - Camino de Juan Romero
- Unidad de Investigación, Fundación para el Fomento de la Investigación Sanitaria y Biomédica de la Comunidad Valenciana (FISABIO), Hospital General Universitario de Elche, Camí de l'Almazara 11, Elche, Alicante, 03203, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación, Desarrollo e Innovación en Biotecnología Sanitaria de Elche (IDiBE), Universidad Miguel Hernández, Avda. Universidad s/n, Ed. Torregaitán, Elche, Alicante, 03202, Spain.
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3
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Tivey A, Lee RJ, Clipson A, Hill SM, Lorigan P, Rothwell DG, Dive C, Mouliere F. Mining nucleic acid "omics" to boost liquid biopsy in cancer. Cell Rep Med 2024; 5:101736. [PMID: 39293399 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2024.101736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/21/2024] [Indexed: 09/20/2024]
Abstract
Treatments for cancer patients are becoming increasingly complex, and there is a growing desire from clinicians and patients for biomarkers that can account for this complexity to support informed decisions about clinical care. To achieve precision medicine, the new generation of biomarkers must reflect the spatial and temporal heterogeneity of cancer biology both between patients and within an individual patient. Mining the different layers of 'omics in a multi-modal way from a minimally invasive, easily repeatable, liquid biopsy has increasing potential in a range of clinical applications, and for improving our understanding of treatment response and resistance. Here, we detail the recent developments and methods allowing exploration of genomic, epigenomic, transcriptomic, and fragmentomic layers of 'omics from liquid biopsy, and their integration in a range of applications. We also consider the specific challenges that are posed by the clinical implementation of multi-omic liquid biopsies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Tivey
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Rebecca J Lee
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Alexandra Clipson
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Steven M Hill
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Paul Lorigan
- Division of Cancer Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Dominic G Rothwell
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Caroline Dive
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Florent Mouliere
- Cancer Research UK National Biomarker Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
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4
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Tsering T, Nadeau A, Wu T, Dickinson K, Burnier JV. Extracellular vesicle-associated DNA: ten years since its discovery in human blood. Cell Death Dis 2024; 15:668. [PMID: 39266560 PMCID: PMC11393322 DOI: 10.1038/s41419-024-07003-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2024] [Revised: 07/29/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have emerged as key players in intercellular communication, facilitating the transfer of crucial cargo between cells. Liquid biopsy, particularly through the isolation of EVs, has unveiled a rich source of potential biomarkers for health and disease, encompassing proteins and nucleic acids. A milestone in this exploration occurred a decade ago with the identification of extracellular vesicle-associated DNA (EV-DNA) in the bloodstream of a patient diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Subsequent years have witnessed substantial advancements, deepening our insights into the molecular intricacies of EV-DNA emission, detection, and analysis. Understanding the complexities surrounding the release of EV-DNA and addressing the challenges inherent in EV-DNA research are pivotal steps toward enhancing liquid biopsy-based strategies. These strategies, crucial for the detection and monitoring of various pathological conditions, particularly cancer, rely on a comprehensive understanding of why and how EV-DNA is released. In our review, we aim to provide a thorough summary of a decade's worth of research on EV-DNA. We will delve into diverse mechanisms of EV-DNA emission, its potential as a biomarker, its functional capabilities, discordant findings in the field, and the hurdles hindering its clinical application. Looking ahead to the next decade, we envision that advancements in EV isolation and detection techniques, coupled with improved standardization and data sharing, will catalyze the development of novel strategies exploiting EV-DNA as both a source of biomarkers and therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thupten Tsering
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Amélie Nadeau
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Tad Wu
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Kyle Dickinson
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Julia V Burnier
- Cancer Research Program, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Department of Pathology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
- Gerald Bronfman Department of Oncology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada.
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5
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Hu C, Chen Q, Wu T, Du X, Dong Y, Peng Z, Xue W, Sunkara V, Cho YK, Dong L. The Role of Extracellular Vesicles in the Treatment of Prostate Cancer. SMALL (WEINHEIM AN DER BERGSTRASSE, GERMANY) 2024; 20:e2311071. [PMID: 38639331 DOI: 10.1002/smll.202311071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Revised: 02/26/2024] [Indexed: 04/20/2024]
Abstract
Prostate cancer (PCa) has become a public health concern in elderly men due to an ever-increasing number of estimated cases. Unfortunately, the available treatments are unsatisfactory because of a lack of a durable response, especially in advanced disease states. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid-bilayer encircled nanoscale vesicles that carry numerous biomolecules (e.g., nucleic acids, proteins, and lipids), mediating the transfer of information. The past decade has witnessed a wide range of EV applications in both diagnostics and therapeutics. First, EV-based non-invasive liquid biopsies provide biomarkers in various clinical scenarios to guide treatment; EVs can facilitate the grading and staging of patients for appropriate treatment selection. Second, EVs play a pivotal role in pathophysiological processes via intercellular communication. Targeting key molecules involved in EV-mediated tumor progression (e.g., proliferation, angiogenesis, metastasis, immune escape, and drug resistance) is a potential approach for curbing PCa. Third, EVs are promising drug carriers. Naïve EVs from various sources and engineered EV-based drug delivery systems have paved the way for the development of new treatment modalities. This review discusses the recent advancements in the application of EV therapies and highlights EV-based functional materials as novel interventions for PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cong Hu
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Qi Chen
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Tianyang Wu
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Xinxing Du
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Yanhao Dong
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Zehong Peng
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Wei Xue
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
| | - Vijaya Sunkara
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Yoon-Kyoung Cho
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Ulsan National Institute of Science and Technology (UNIST), Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
- Center for Algorithmic and Robotized Synthesis, Institute for Basic Science Ulsan, Ulsan, 44919, Republic of Korea
| | - Liang Dong
- Department of Urology, Renji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, 200127, China
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6
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Harita Y. Urinary extracellular vesicles in childhood kidney diseases. Pediatr Nephrol 2024; 39:2293-2300. [PMID: 38093081 PMCID: PMC11199279 DOI: 10.1007/s00467-023-06243-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/23/2023] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Most biological fluids contain extracellular vesicles (EVs). EVs are surrounded by a lipid bilayer and contain biological macromolecules such as proteins, lipids, RNA, and DNA. They lack a functioning nucleus and are incapable of replicating. The physiological characteristics and molecular composition of EVs in body fluids provide valuable information about the status of originating cells. Consequently, they could be effectively utilized for diagnostic and prognostic applications. Urine contains a heterogeneous population of EVs. To date, these urinary extracellular vesicles (uEVs) have been ignored in the standard urinalysis. In recent years, knowledge has accumulated on how uEVs should be separated and analyzed. It has become clear how uEVs reflect the expression of each molecule in cells in nephron segments and how they are altered in disease states such as glomerular/tubular disorders, rare congenital diseases, acute kidney injury (AKI), and chronic kidney disease (CKD). Significant promise exists for the molecular expression signature of uEVs detected by simple techniques such as enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), making them more applicable in clinical settings. This review presents the current understanding regarding uEVs, emphasizing the potential for non-invasive diagnostics, especially for childhood kidney diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yutaka Harita
- Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tokyo Hospital, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-Ku, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan.
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7
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Xu C, Jiang C, Li Z, Gao H, Xian J, Guo W, He D, Peng X, Zhou D, Li D. Exosome nanovesicles: biomarkers and new strategies for treatment of human diseases. MedComm (Beijing) 2024; 5:e660. [PMID: 39015555 PMCID: PMC11247338 DOI: 10.1002/mco2.660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Exosomes are nanoscale vesicles of cellular origin. One of the main characteristics of exosomes is their ability to carry a wide range of biomolecules from their parental cells, which are important mediators of intercellular communication and play an important role in physiological and pathological processes. Exosomes have the advantages of biocompatibility, low immunogenicity, and wide biodistribution. As researchers' understanding of exosomes has increased, various strategies have been proposed for their use in diagnosing and treating diseases. Here, we provide an overview of the biogenesis and composition of exosomes, describe the relationship between exosomes and disease progression, and focus on the use of exosomes as biomarkers for early screening, disease monitoring, and guiding therapy in refractory diseases such as tumors and neurodegenerative diseases. We also summarize the current applications of exosomes, especially engineered exosomes, for efficient drug delivery, targeted therapies, gene therapies, and immune vaccines. Finally, the current challenges and potential research directions for the clinical application of exosomes are also discussed. In conclusion, exosomes, as an emerging molecule that can be used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, combined with multidisciplinary innovative solutions, will play an important role in clinical applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chuan Xu
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Chaoyang Jiang
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Zhihui Li
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Hui Gao
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Jing Xian
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Wenyan Guo
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Dan He
- Department of OncologyThe Second Affiliated Hospital of Chengdu Medical CollegeChina National Nuclear Corporation 416 HospitalChengduSichuanChina
| | - Xingchen Peng
- Department of BiotherapyCancer CenterWest China HospitalSichuan UniversityChengduSichuanChina
| | - Daijun Zhou
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
| | - Dong Li
- Department of OncologyThe General Hospital of Western Theater CommandChengduChina
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8
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Li SL, Zha MY, Wang Q, Tang Y. Advances in multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging combined with biomarkers for the diagnosis of high-grade prostate cancer. Front Surg 2024; 11:1429831. [PMID: 39081487 PMCID: PMC11286397 DOI: 10.3389/fsurg.2024.1429831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Clinical decisions based on the test results for prostate-specific antigen often result in overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (mpMRI) can be used to identify high-grade prostate cancer (HGPCa; Gleason score ≥3 + 4); however, certain limitations remain such as inter-reader variability and false negatives. The combination of mpMRI and prostate cancer (PCa) biomarkers (prostate-specific antigen density, Proclarix, TMPRSS2:ERG gene fusion, Michigan prostate score, ExoDX prostate intelliscore, four kallikrein score, select molecular diagnosis, prostate health index, and prostate health index density) demonstrates high accuracy in the diagnosis of HGPCa, ensuring that patients avoid unnecessary prostate biopsies with a low leakage rate. This manuscript describes the characteristics and diagnostic performance of each biomarker alone and in combination with mpMRI, with the intension to provide a basis for decision-making in the diagnosis and treatment of HGPCa. Additionally, we explored the applicability of the combination protocol to the Asian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Song-lin Li
- Department of Urology, Wuming Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Ming-yong Zha
- Department of Urology, Wuming Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Experimental Research, Guangxi Medical University Cancer Hospital, Nanning, China
- Key Laboratory of Early Prevention and Treatment for Regional High-Frequency Tumor (Guangxi Medical University), Ministry of Education, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Yong Tang
- Department of Urology, Wuming Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
- State Key Laboratory of Targeting Oncology, Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
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9
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Urabe F, Tamura T, Sakamoto S, Kimura T, Ochiya T. Extracellular vesicles as novel uro-oncology biomarkers: insights toward clinical applications. Curr Opin Urol 2024:00042307-990000000-00162. [PMID: 38835180 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW We discussed the challenges associated with the clinical application of extracellular vesicles and summarized their potential impact on oncological clinical practice in urology. RECENT FINDINGS Despite extensive research on extracellular vesicles, their clinical applications remain limited; this is likely to be because of small study cohorts, a lack of large-scale analyses, and the impact of variable extraction and storage methods on analysis outcomes. However, promising results have emerged from clinical trials targeting urinary extracellular vesicles in prostate cancer using ExoDx Prostate Test. The ExoDx Prostate Test has demonstrated its efficacy in diagnosing prostate cancer in previous studies and is the only FDA-approved kit for this purpose. Moreover, recent trials have investigated the use of the ExoDx Prostate Test to determine the optimal timing for biopsies in prostate cancer patients undergoing active surveillance. SUMMARY We summarized recent studies on the potential of extracellular vesicles in the management of urological cancers. Particularly, the diagnosis of prostate cancer using the ExoDx Prostate Test has yielded positive results in several clinical trials. Additionally, while there are other studies suggesting its efficacy, most of these are based on retrospective analyses. These findings warrant further large-scale studies to optimize extracellular vesicle-based diagnostic and monitoring strategies. Although further research is required, extracellular vesicles would be attractive for early detection and surveillance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Urabe
- Department of Urology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo
| | - Takaaki Tamura
- Department of Urology, Chiba University, Chiba
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | | | - Takahiro Kimura
- Department of Urology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo
| | - Takahiro Ochiya
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, Tokyo, Japan
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10
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Urabe F, Sumiyoshi T, Tashiro K, Goto T, Kimura T, Kobayashi T. Prostate cancer and liquid biopsies: Clinical applications and challenges. Int J Urol 2024; 31:617-626. [PMID: 38551314 DOI: 10.1111/iju.15441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/06/2024]
Abstract
Liquid biopsy has emerged as a valuable and minimally invasive tool for real-time detection of clinically actionable abnormalities across various cancer types. Its applicability is particularly compelling in the realm of prostate cancer, where novel therapeutic agents, including those targeting DNA repair systems, are under development. Despite these advancements, challenges persist in effectively screening for prostate cancer, enhancing risk stratification, and determining optimal approaches for treating advanced disease. Consequently, there is a pressing need for improved biomarkers to aid clinicians in decision-making within these contexts. Cell-free DNA and extracellular vesicle analysis have demonstrated promise in diagnosis, prognostication, assessment of treatment responses, and identification of emerging mechanisms of resistance. Nevertheless, obstacles must be addressed before liquid biopsies can be integrated into routine clinical practice. These challenges encompass preanalytical considerations such as sample collection and storage, methods of extracellular vesicle isolation and enrichment, and the need for enhanced interpretation of generated sequencing data. This review provides a comprehensive overview of current clinical opportunities in managing prostate cancer through blood-based liquid biopsy, highlighting the progress made, and acknowledging the challenges that remain. Additionally, we discuss the next steps required for the effective implementation of liquid biopsies in guiding personalized treatment strategies for prostate cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumihiko Urabe
- Department of Urology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Sumiyoshi
- Department of Urology, Kyoto University School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Kojiro Tashiro
- Department of Urology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takayuki Goto
- Department of Urology, Kyoto University School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Takahiro Kimura
- Department of Urology, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Minato City, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takashi Kobayashi
- Department of Urology, Kyoto University School of Medicine, Kyoto, Japan
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11
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Azzalini E, Bonin S. Molecular diagnostics of prostate cancer: impact of molecular tests. Asian J Androl 2024:00129336-990000000-00185. [PMID: 38738960 DOI: 10.4103/aja202411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second leading cause of cancer-related death among men. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is used in screening programs for early detection with a consequent reduction of PCa-specific mortality at the cost of overdiagnosis and overtreatment of the nonaggressive PCa. Recently, several assays have been commercially developed to implement PCa diagnosis, but they have not been included in both screening and diagnosis of PCa. This review aims to describe the actual and novel commercially available molecular biomarkers that can be used in PCa management to implement and tailor the screening and diagnosis of PCa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eros Azzalini
- DSM, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste 34149, Italy
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12
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Borbiev T, Kohaar I, Petrovics G. Clinical Biofluid Assays for Prostate Cancer. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 16:165. [PMID: 38201592 PMCID: PMC10777952 DOI: 10.3390/cancers16010165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
This mini review summarizes the currently available clinical biofluid assays for PCa. The second most prevalent cancer worldwide is PCa. PCa is a heterogeneous disease, with a large percentage of prostate tumors being indolent, and with a relatively slow metastatic potential. However, due to the high case numbers, the absolute number of PCa-related deaths is still high. In fact, it causes the second highest number of cancer deaths in American men. As a first step for the diagnosis of PCa, the PSA test has been widely used. However, it has low specificity, which results in a high number of false positives leading to overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Newer derivatives of the original PSA test, including the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved 4K (four kallikreins) and the PHI (Prostate Health Index) blood tests, have higher specificities. Tissue-based PCa tests are problematic as biopsies are invasive and have limited accuracy due to prostate tumor heterogeneity. Liquid biopsies offer a minimally or non-invasive choice for the patients, while providing a more representative reflection of the spatial heterogeneity in the prostate. In addition to the abovementioned blood-based tests, urine is a promising source of PCa biomarkers, offering a supplementary avenue for early detection and improved tumor classification. Four urine-based PCa tests are either FDA- or CLIA-approved: PCA3 (PROGENSA), ExoDX Prostate Intelliscore, MiPS, and SelectMDx. We will discuss these urine-based, as well as the blood-based, clinical PCa tests in more detail. We also briefly discuss a few promising biofluid marker candidates (DNA methylation, micro-RNAs) which are not in clinical application. As no single assay is perfect, we envision that a combination of biomarkers, together with imaging, will become the preferred practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Talaibek Borbiev
- Center for Prostate Disease Research, Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA; (T.B.); (I.K.)
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
| | - Indu Kohaar
- Center for Prostate Disease Research, Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA; (T.B.); (I.K.)
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
- Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | - Gyorgy Petrovics
- Center for Prostate Disease Research, Murtha Cancer Center Research Program, Department of Surgery, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20817, USA; (T.B.); (I.K.)
- Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Inc., Bethesda, MD 20817, USA
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Franco A, Autorino R. ExoDx test for prostate cancer: the future is liquid-Editorial Comment. Prostate Cancer Prostatic Dis 2023; 26:443-444. [PMID: 37573458 DOI: 10.1038/s41391-023-00707-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Franco
- Department of Urology, Rush University, Chicago, IL, USA
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