Prostate Cancer Incidence and Mortality: Global Status and Temporal Trends in 89 Countries From 2000 to 2019

Provision of prostate cancer services in Tanzania: perspectives from five tertiary hospitals

BACKGROUND

Access to quality prostate cancer services remains a global challenge, particularly in Low- and Middle-Income countries. This is often due to weak health systems that struggle to meet the population's needs. The provision of quality health services to patients with prostate cancer requires a comprehensive approach involving multiple stakeholders and structural inputs. However, few studies have comprehensively assessed the relationship between these structural inputs and prostate cancer treatment outcomes. This study, therefore, aimed to determine the availability of selected structural inputs and descriptions of how they influence the provision of quality services to patients with prostate cancer in Tanzania.

METHODS

We conducted a cross-sectional study using an explanatory sequential mixed-method approach to collect data from five tertiary hospitals providing cancer services in Tanzania. A validated checklist was used to collect information on available structural inputs for prostate services at tertiary hospitals. A semi-structured interview guide was used to conduct 42 in-depth interviews with 20 healthcare providers, five hospital managers, and 17 patients undergoing treatment for prostate cancer. Descriptive analysis was performed for the quantitative data, and thematic analysis was conducted with the aid of NVivo 14 qualitative software for the interview transcripts.

RESULTS

All five assessed tertiary hospitals had inadequate human resources for health to provide prostate cancer services. Only one had 70% of the required HRH, while none had above 40% of the required HRH. Within the hospitals, the skill mix imbalance was severe across cadres. Five themes emerged: inadequate infrastructure, delays in diagnosis, delays in treatment, shortage of human resources for health (HRH), and inefficient organization of prostate cancer services.

CONCLUSION

The findings of this study, underscore the major health system deficiencies for the provision of prostate cancer services in tertiary hospitals. With the increased aging population, strong health systems are vital in addressing conditions of old aging, including prostate cancers. Studies on optimization of the available HRH and infrastructure are needed to improve the provision of prostate cancer in tertiary hospitals as an interim solution while long-term measures are needed for improving the HRH availability and conducive infrastructure.

Relationship between universal health insurance benefits and prostate cancer mortality in Colombia

PURPOSE

Prostate cancer is the most common cause for cancer mortality among men in Colombia. Law 100, in 1993, created a contributory regime (private insurance) and subsidized regime (public insurance) in which the subsidized regime had fewer benefits. However, Ruling T760 in July 2012 mandated that both systems must offer equal quality and access to healthcare. This study examines the impact of this change on prostate cancer mortality rates before and after 2012.

METHODOLOGY

Prostate cancer mortality records from 2006 to 2020 were collected from Colombia's National Administrative Department of Statistics (DANE). Crude mortality was calculated by health insurance for different geographic areas and analyzed for changes between 2006 and 2012 and 2013-2020. Join-Point regressions were used to analyze trends by health insurance.

RESULTS

Crude mortality rates in the contributory regime had a non-statistically significant decrease from 2006 to 2012 (AAPC= -1.32%, P = 0.14, 95% CI= -3.12, 0.52). In contrast, between 2013 and 2020 there was a non-statistically significant increase in crude mortality (AAPC 1.10%, P = 0.07, 95% CI= -0.09, 2.31). Comparatively, crude mortality in the subsidized regime, from 2006 to 2012, increased with a statistically significant AAPC of 2.51% (P < 0.001, 95% CI = 1.21, 3.83). From 2013 to 2020, mortality continued to increase with statistically significant AAPC of 5.52% (P < 0.001, 95% CI = 4.77, 6.27). Compared to their crude mortality differences from 2006 to 2020, from 2013 to 2020, the departments of Atlántico, Córdoba, Sucre, Arauca, Cesar, and Cauca had the highest rates in prostate cancer mortality in the subsidized regime compared to the contributory regime.

CONCLUSION

Ruling T760 did not positively impact prostate cancer mortality, particularly of men in the subsidized regime.

A paper-in-polymer-pond (PiPP) hybrid microfluidic microplate for multiplexed ultrasensitive detection of cancer biomarkers

Conventional affinity-based colorimetric enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) is one of the most widely used methods for the detection of biomarkers. However, rapid point-of-care (POC) detection of multiple cancer biomarkers by conventional ELISA is limited by long incubation time, large reagent volume, and costly instrumentation along with low sensitivity due to the nature of colorimetric methods. Herein, we have developed a reusable and cost-effective paper-in-polymer-pond (PiPP) hybrid microfluidic microplate for ultrasensitive and high-throughput multiplexed detection of disease biomarkers within an hour without using specialized instruments. A piece of pre-patterned chromatography paper placed in the PMMA polymer pond facilitates rapid protein immobilization to avoid intricate surface modifications of polymer and can be changed with a fresh paper layer to reuse the device. Reagents can be simply delivered from the top PMMA layer to multiple microwells in the middle PMMA layer via flow-through microwells, thereby increasing the efficiency of washing and avoiding repeated manual pipetting or costly robots. Quantitative colorimetric analysis was achieved by calculating the brightness of images scanned by an office scanner or a smartphone camera. Sandwich-type immunoassay was performed in the PiPP hybrid device after the optimization of multiple assay conditions. Limits of detection of 0.32 ng mL-1 for carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and 0.20 ng mL-1 for prostate-specific antigen (PSA) were obtained, which were about 10-fold better than those of commercial ELISA kits. We envisage that this simple but versatile hybrid device can have broad applications in various bioassays in resource-limited settings.

Trends in focal therapy for localized prostate cancer: a bibliometric analysis from 2014 to 2023

Focal therapy, a minimally invasive strategy for localized prostate cancer, has been widely employed in the targeted treatment of localized prostate cancer in recent years. We analyzed 1312 relevant papers from the last decade using Web of Science Core Collection data. Our analysis covered countries, institutions, journals, authors, keywords, and references to offer a multifaceted perspective on the development of this field. The U.S. led in publications, contributing over half of the top 10 institutions. Emberton, M from University College London was the most published and cited author. "EUROPEAN UROLOGY" was the top journal by impact factor in 2022. Analysis of references and keywords suggests the prevalence of brachytherapy-related research, while high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryotherapy, and irreversible electroporation (IRE) are emerging as new research focuses. Consequently, more high-quality evidence is necessary to evaluate the long-term effectiveness and safety of these novel therapeutic methods.

Low Magnetic Field Exposure Alters Prostate Cancer Cell Properties

Prostate cancer is the second most common neoplasia and fifth-leading cause of cancer death in men worldwide. Electromagnetic and magnetic fields have been classified as possible human carcinogens, but current understanding of molecular and cellular pathways involved is very limited. Effects due to extremely low magnetic/hypomagnetic fields (LMF) are furthermore poorly understood. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are crucial mediators of cellular communication with multifaceted roles in cancer progression, including via transport and uptake of various protein and microRNA (miRNA) EV-cargoes. miRNAs regulate gene expression and are implicated in cancer-related processes such as proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance. This study investigated the effects of LMF exposure (20 nT) by magnetic shielding on the prostate cancer cell line PC3 compared to the prostate epithelial cell line PNT2 under short-term (4 h) conditions. We examined EV profiles following a 4 h LMF exposure alongside associated functional enrichment KEGG and GO pathways for the EV proteomes. The 4 h LMF exposure significantly reduced cellular EV release and modified PC3 EV cargoes to a more inflammatory and metastatic profile, with 16 Disease Pathways and 95 Human Phenotypes associated specifically with the LMF-treated PC3 EV proteomes. These included cancerous, metabolic, blood, skin, cardiac and skeletal Disease Pathways, as well as pain and developmental disorders. In the normal PNT2 cells, less EV protein cargo was observed following LMF exposure compared with cells not exposed to LMF, and fewer associated functional enrichment pathways were identified. This pointed to some differences in various cellular functions, ageing, defence responses, oxidative stress, and disease phenotypes, including respiratory, digestive, immune, and developmental pathways. Furthermore, we analysed alterations in matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and miRNAs linked to metastasis, as this is crucial in cancer aggressiveness. The 4 h LMF exposure caused a significant increase in MMP2 and MMP9, as well as in onco-miRs miR-155, miR-210, miR-21, but a significant reduction in tumour-suppressor miRs (miR-200c and miR-126) in the metastatic PC3 cells, compared with normal PNT2 cells. In addition, 4 h LMF exposure significantly induced cellular invasion of PC3 cells. Overall, our findings suggest that changes in magnetic field exposures modulate EV-mediated and miR-regulatory processes in PCa metastasis, providing a basis for exploring novel therapeutic strategies.

The economic burden of prostate cancer in Iran: a cross-sectional cost-of-illness study

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the economic burden of prostate cancer in Iran by analyzing direct medical costs, direct non-medical costs, and indirect costs. We conducted a cross-sectional cost-of-illness study in Khorramabad, located in western Iran, during 2023, using a prevalence-based, bottom-up approach. Data were collected from 285 prostate cancer patients using questionnaires, interviews, and patient records.

RESULTS

Our study estimated the economic burden of prostate cancer at $744,990. Direct medical costs accounted for 63.50% of this, totaling $153,330, with therapy being the largest component. Direct non-medical costs were $62,130, and indirect costs from productivity losses were $209,760. The calculated overall cost per patient was $2,614.88. Extrapolating from the 2021 Global Burden of Disease data, which reported approximately 83,000 prostate cancer patients in Iran, the national economic burden is estimated at $217,034,040. This substantial burden highlights the need for improved insurance coverage and early detection. The findings suggest that policymakers and healthcare providers in Iran should develop standardized cost analysis methods and enhance financial protection to alleviate economic strain and improve healthcare outcomes and sustainability.

The current state of inflammation-related research in prostate cancer: a bibliometric analysis and systematic review

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the second most prevalent malignancy among men globally. The diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of prostate cancer frequently fall short of expectations. In recent years, the connection between inflammation and prostate cancer has attracted considerable attention. However, there is a lack of bibliometric studies analyzing the research on inflammation within the domain of prostate cancer.

Research methods

We utilized the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) as our data source to extract articles and reviews related to inflammation in prostate cancer, published up until April 12, 2024. The collected data underwent meticulous manual screening, followed by bibliometric analysis and visualization using the Biblioshiny package in R.

Results

This study encompasses an analysis of 2,786 papers focusing on inflammation-related research within the realm of prostate cancer. Recent years have seen a significant proliferation of publications in this area, with the United States and China being the foremost contributors. The most prolific author in this domain is Demarzoam, with Johns Hopkins University standing out as the most influential institution. The leading journal in disseminating these studies is PROSTATE. Keyword co-occurrence analysis reveals that 'inflammation-related biomarkers', 'inflammation index', and 'tumor immune microenvironment' represent the current research hotspots and frontiers.

Conclusion

The findings of this bibliometric study serve to illuminate the current landscape of inflammation-related research in the field of prostate cancer, while further augmenting the discourse on inflammation-mediated cancer therapeutics. Of particular note is the potential of these discoveries to facilitate a more nuanced understanding among researchers regarding the interplay between inflammation and prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer Knowledge, Beliefs and Screening Uptake among Black Survivors: A Qualitative Exploration at a Tertiary Hospital, Limpopo Province, South Africa

Men of African ancestry suffer disproportionately from prostate cancer (PCa) compared to other racial groups in South Africa. Equally concerning is that black South African men generally present later and with higher stages and grades of the disease than their non-black counterparts. Despite this, a small percentage of black South African men participate in screening practices for PCa. This study sought to explore knowledge and beliefs of black South African PCa survivors, and the potential impact of this on the limited screening uptake within this population group. A hermeneutic phenomenological study design was undertaken. The sample comprised 20 black South African PCa survivors, between the ages of 67 and 85 years (meanage = 76 yrs; SD = 5.3), receiving some form of treatment at a tertiary Academic Hospital, Limpopo Province, South Africa. The sample was selected through a purposive sampling method. Data for the study were collected through in-depth, semi-structured individual interviews and analyzed through interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA). The findings demonstrated that black South African men had poor knowledge of PCa and that this may create an unfortunate system that precludes this population group from taking part in life-saving PCa screening services. The results highlight a need to elevate knowledge and awareness of PCa among black South African men and ultimately enhance screening practices.

Exploring Prostate Cancer Incidence Trends and Age Change in Cancer Registration Areas of Jiangsu Province, China, 2009 to 2019

(1) Background: Over the past few decades, Jiangsu Province, China, has witnessed a remarkable surge in the incidence of prostate cancer (PCa), accompanied by notable demographic shifts; (2) Methods: PCa data for Jiangsu Province from 2009 to 2019 were obtained from the Jiangsu Cancer Registry. We calculated crude and age-specific incidence rates (ASIRs), average age at onset, and age-specific composition ratios. Standardization was performed based on the Segi's world population. Birth cohorts (1929-2019) were analyzed to assess PCa incidence by birth year. Trend analysis was conducted using the Joinpoint Regression Model, and average annual percent changes (AAPCs) with corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) were computed. A linear regression model was used to analyze the relationship between the average age at diagnosis and calendar years; (3) Results: The ASIRs of PCa in Jiangsu Province increased significantly, with an AAPC of 11.25% (95%CI: 10.09%, 12.42%) from 2009 to 2019. This increase was observed across all age groups, particularly among those aged 0-59 years. Birth cohort analysis revealed a rising trend with earlier birth years showing higher incidence, notably in the 1959 cohort. In rural areas, the age-standardized average age at onset of PCa decreased from 75.45 years in 2009 to 73.39 years in 2019, and the peak age group shifted from 75-79 years in 2009 to 70-74 years in 2019; (4) Conclusions: The rising incidence of PCa in Jiangsu Province, along with an increased proportion of cases in younger age groups, highlights the need for targeted interventions.

Azolato-Bridged Dinuclear Platinum(II) Complexes Exhibit Androgen Receptor-Mediated Anti-Prostate Cancer Activity

Prostate cancer is an androgen-dependent malignancy that presents a marked treatment challenge, particularly after progression to the castration-resistant stage. Traditional treatments such as androgen deprivation therapy often lead to resistance, necessitating novel therapeutic approaches. Previous studies have indicated that some of the azolato-bridged dinuclear platinum(II) complexes (general formula: [{cis-Pt(NH3)2}2(μ-OH)(μ-azolato)]X2, where azolato = pyrazolato, 1,2,3-triazolato, or tetrazolato and X = nitrate or perchlorate) inhibit androgen receptor (AR) signaling. Therefore, here we investigated the potential of 14 such complexes as agents for the treatment of prostate cancer by examining their antiproliferative activity in the human prostate adenocarcinoma cell line LNCaP. Several of the complexes, particularly 5-H-Y ([{cis-Pt(NH3)2}2(μ-OH)(μ-tetrazolato-N2,N3)](ClO4)2), effectively inhibited LNCaP cell growth, even at low concentrations, by direct modulation of AR signaling, and by binding to DNA and inducing apoptosis, which is a common mechanism of action of Pt-based drugs such as cisplatin (cis-diamminedichloridoplatinum(II)). Comparative analysis with cisplatin revealed superior inhibitory effects of these complexes. Further investigation revealed that 5-H-Y suppressed mRNA expression of genes downstream from AR and induced apoptosis, particularly in cells overexpressing AR, highlighting its potential as an AR antagonist. Thus, we provide here insights into the mechanisms underlying the antiproliferative effects of azolato-bridged complexes in prostate cancer.

PSMA-Targeted 2-Deoxyglucose-Based Dendrimer Nanomedicine for the Treatment of Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer (PC) is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among men worldwide. Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), a molecular target of PC, is clinically used for the treatment and diagnosis of PC using radioligand approaches. However, no PSMA-based chemotherapies have yet been approved by the FDA. Here, we present a novel therapeutic approach using PSMA-targeted 2-deoxyglucose-dendrimer (PSMA-2DG-D) for targeted delivery of a potent tyrosine kinase inhibitor, cabozantinib (Cabo), selectively to PC cells. PSMA-2DG-D demonstrates intracellular localization in PSMA (+) PC cells through PSMA-mediated internalization. This PSMA-specific targeting translates to enhanced efficacy of Cabo compared to the free drug when conjugated to PSMA-2DG-D. Furthermore, systemically administered fluorescently labeled PSMA-2DG-D-Cy5 specifically targets PSMA (+) tumors with minimal off-target accumulation in the PC3-PIP tumor xenograft mouse model. This demonstrates that the PSMA-2DG-D platform is a promising new delivery system for potent chemotherapeutics, where systemic side effects are a significant concern.

A diffusion-prepared reduced FOV sequence for prostate MRI near metallic implants

PURPOSE

To enable diffusion weighted imaging in prostate patients with metallic total hip replacements in clinically feasible scan times for prostate cancer screening, and avoid distortion and dropout artifacts present in the conventionally used Echo Planar Imaging (EPI).

METHODS

A reduced field of view (FOV) diffusion-prepared sequence that is robust to the B 0 $$ {\kern0em }_0 $$ inhomogeneities produced by total hip replacements was achieved using high radiofrequency (RF) bandwidth pulses and manipulation for stimulated echo pathways. The reduced FOV along the A/P direction was obtained using slice-select gradient reversal, and the prepared magnetization was imaged with a three-dimensional RF-spoiled gradient echo readout. The sequence was validated in phantom experiments, in vivo in healthy volunteers with and without total hip replacements, and in vivo in patients undergoing a standard MRI prostate exam.

RESULTS

The proposed sequence is robust to shading and distortion artifacts that are encountered by standard diffusion-weighted EPI in the presence of moderate off-resonance. Apparent diffusion coefficient estimates obtained by the proposed sequence were comparable to those obtained with diffusion-weighted EPI.

CONCLUSION

Acquisition of distortionless diffusion weighted images of the prostate is feasible in patients with total hip replacements on conventional, whole-body 3T MRI, using a b-value of 800s / mm 2 $$ \mathrm{s}/{\mathrm{mm}}^2 $$ and nominal resolution of 1.7× $$ \times $$ 1.7× $$ \times $$ 4 mm3 in scan times of 6 min.

Within-trial hospitalization resource utilization and budget impact analysis for darolutamide in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer using ARASENS

BACKGROUND

ARASENS was a randomized, double-blind, phase 3 trial comparing darolutamide + docetaxel + androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) with placebo + docetaxel + ADT in patients with metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC).

OBJECTIVE

To use clinical trial data from ARASENS to understand whether the addition of darolutamide to docetaxel + ADT leads to increased hospitalizations and to estimate the budget impact on the US health care system.

METHODS

We used mixed-effects negative binomial regression to estimate hospitalization and intensive care unit (ICU) admission rates and length of hospital stay (LoHS) counts. Hospitalization rates were estimated per treatment arm for the period during and after administration of docetaxel. Based on these estimates, a budget impact analysis evaluated the hospitalization costs (including ICU admissions) and standalone ICU hospitalization costs for the totality of the US population over a 5-year time horizon. The analysis compared a scenario without darolutamide vs one with darolutamide included in the US payer formulary. Hospitalization estimates were varied in a one-way sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

The first 4 months of treatment (when patients were receiving docetaxel) were associated with increased hospitalizations across both arms. The addition of darolutamide was associated with a numerical reduction in the rate of hospitalization (per year) due to any reason both during docetaxel treatment (1.01 visits per year [95% CI = 0.82-1.20] vs 1.18 visits per year [95% CI = 0.96-1.41]) and after docetaxel treatment (0.28 visits per year [95% CI = 0.23-0.34] vs 0.33 visits per year [95% CI = 0.27-0.40]). Darolutamide was associated with a marginally longer LoHS per hospitalization compared with placebo (+1.90 days per year) both during and after docetaxel treatment. ICU admissions were low in the ARASENS data; admission rates were assumed to be the same during and after docetaxel treatment. ICU admission rate estimates were equivalent across arms (0.02 visits per year [95% CI = 0.01-0.03]). The budget impact per treated member per month represents a cost-neutral option after Year 5 with a cumulative budget impact of -$9.71.

CONCLUSIONS

The addition of darolutamide to docetaxel + ADT was associated with a numerically lower rate of hospitalization but marginally longer LoHS compared with docetaxel + ADT alone. Darolutamide represents a cost-neutral alternative per treated member per month compared with docetaxel + ADT with regard to hospitalizations at the end of a 5-year time horizon.

Overall and metastasis-free survival of Afro-Caribbean patients with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy

INTRODUCTION

Early salvage radiotherapy is indicated for patients with biochemical recurrence after radical prostatectomy. However, for various reasons, certain patients do not benefit from this treatment (OBS) or only at a late stage (LSR). There are few studies on this subject and none on a "high-risk" population, such as patients of African descent. Our objective was to estimate the metastasis-free (MFS) and overall survival (OS) of patients who did not receive salvage radiotherapy, and to identify risk factors of disease progression.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective study that included 154 patients, 99 in the OBS group and 55 in the LSR group. All were treated by total prostatectomy for localized prostate cancer between January 2000 and December 2020 and none received early salvage radiotherapy after biochemical recurrence.

RESULTS

Baseline characteristics were similar between groups, except for the time to biochemical recurrence. The median follow-up was 10.0 and 11.8 years for the OBS and LSR groups, respectively. The median time from surgery to LSR was 5.1 years. The two groups did not show a significant difference in MFS: 90.6% at 10 years for the OBS group and 93.3% for the LSR group. The median MFS was 19.8 and 19.6 years for the OBS and LSR groups respectively. OS for the OBS group was significantly higher than that for the LSR group (HR: 2.14 [1.07-4.29]; p = 0.03), with 10-year OS of 95.9% for the OBS group and 76.1% for the LSR group. Median OS was 16 and 15.6 years for the OBS and LSR groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we observed satisfactory metastasis-free and OS rates relative to those reported in the scientific literature. The challenge is not to question the benefit of early salvage radiotherapy, but to improve the identification of patients at risk of progression through the development of molecular and genomic tests for more highly personalized medicine.

Inclusivity in prostate cancer and exercise research: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most prevalent type of cancer in men in the UK. Exercise has been shown to improve the health and quality of life of PCa patients. Exercise should be easily accessible to men with PCa regardless of socioeconomic group or ethnicity. There is a need to better understand whether the current evidence base for exercise interventions is representative and inclusive of racial and ethnic minority men with PCa.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines and prospectively registered via Prospero (ID: CRD42022384373). The MEDLINE Ovid, Cochrane Library and PubMed databases were searched from inception to December 2022. The search strategy keywords and MeSH terms used included the following: (1) exercise, (2) training, (3) prostate cancer, (4) ethnic and (5) diversity.

RESULTS

A total of 778 records were retrieved from database searches, of which 15 records were duplicates. A further 649 were eliminated following the screening of titles and abstracts. After full-text screening of 186 articles, 28 manuscripts were included for review.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review highlights that there is high heterogeneity in the reporting of participants' ethnicity and there are low numbers of ethnic minority men included in PCa and exercise studies in the UK. Further work is required to understand why representation is lacking within PCa exercise trials in the UK and strategies are needed to achieve representation from all ethnic groups.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CANCER SURVIVORS

Improved representation and reporting of ethnicity in exercise trials is vital to ensure the results are applicable to all patients.

Developments in radionanotheranostic strategies for precision diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Prostate Cancer (PCa) is the second most diagnosed urological cancer among men worldwide. Conventional methods used for diagnosis of PCa have several pitfalls which include lack of sensitivity and specificity. On the other hand, traditional treatment of PCa poses challenges such as long-term side effects and the development of multidrug resistance (MDR).

MAIN BODY

Hence, there is a need for novel PCa agents with the potential to lessen the burden of these adverse effects on patients. Nanotechnology has emerged as a promising approach to support both early diagnosis and effective treatment of tumours by ensuring precise delivery of the drug to the targeted site of the disease. Most cancer-related biological processes occur on the nanoscale hence application of nanotechnology has been greatly appreciated and implemented in the management and therapeutics of cancer. Nuclear medicine plays a significant role in the non-invasive diagnosis and treatment of PCa using appropriate radiopharmaceuticals. This review aims to explore the different radiolabelled nanomaterials to enhance the specific delivery of imaging and therapeutic agents to cancer cells. Thereafter, the review appraises the advantages and disadvantages of these modalities and then discusses and outlines the benefits of radiolabelled nanomaterials in targeting cancerous prostatic tumours. Moreover, the nanoradiotheranostic approaches currently developed for PCa are discussed and finally the prospects of combining radiopharmaceuticals with nanotechnology in improving PCa outcomes will be highlighted.

CONCLUSION

Nanomaterials have great potential, but safety and biocompatibility issues remain. Notwithstanding, the combination of nanomaterials with radiotherapeutics may improve patient outcomes and quality of life.

Concurrent high risk HPV35, HPV45, and HPV59 infections in prostate and bladder cancer tissues of a single patient: A case report

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, primarily transmitted through sexual contact, have been linked to various cancers, including cervical, penile, anal, oropharynx, breast, and prostate cancers. This study presents a unique case of concurrent high-risk HPV35, HPV45, and HPV59 infections in both prostate and bladder cancer tissues from a single patient, representing the first documented instance worldwide with identical HPV types detected in two adjacent organs of the same individual. Employing a multiplex-PCR approach, gel electrophoresis, and Sanger sequencing, we confirmed the presence of these high-risk HPV types. Additionally, Western blot analysis using an HPV E7 antibody demonstrated the active expression of HPV oncoproteins in both cancer types. This discovery underscores the potential for HPV intra-organ transmission and necessitates further exploration of alternative transmission routes. The implications of our results offer new insights into the complex dynamics of HPV transmission in cancer pathogenesis. In conclusion our study reveals concurrent HPV infections in both prostate and bladder cancers within a single patient and highlights the potential intra-organ spread of HPV and the need for further investigation of alternative transmission routes.

Evaluating the Efficacy of ChatGPT as a Patient Education Tool in Prostate Cancer: Multimetric Assessment

BACKGROUND

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots, such as ChatGPT, have made significant progress. These chatbots, particularly popular among health care professionals and patients, are transforming patient education and disease experience with personalized information. Accurate, timely patient education is crucial for informed decision-making, especially regarding prostate-specific antigen screening and treatment options. However, the accuracy and reliability of AI chatbots' medical information must be rigorously evaluated. Studies testing ChatGPT's knowledge of prostate cancer are emerging, but there is a need for ongoing evaluation to ensure the quality and safety of information provided to patients.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to evaluate the quality, accuracy, and readability of ChatGPT-4's responses to common prostate cancer questions posed by patients.

METHODS

Overall, 8 questions were formulated with an inductive approach based on information topics in peer-reviewed literature and Google Trends data. Adapted versions of the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for AI (PEMAT-AI), Global Quality Score, and DISCERN-AI tools were used by 4 independent reviewers to assess the quality of the AI responses. The 8 AI outputs were judged by 7 expert urologists, using an assessment framework developed to assess accuracy, safety, appropriateness, actionability, and effectiveness. The AI responses' readability was assessed using established algorithms (Flesch Reading Ease score, Gunning Fog Index, Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level, The Coleman-Liau Index, and Simple Measure of Gobbledygook [SMOG] Index). A brief tool (Reference Assessment AI [REF-AI]) was developed to analyze the references provided by AI outputs, assessing for reference hallucination, relevance, and quality of references.

RESULTS

The PEMAT-AI understandability score was very good (mean 79.44%, SD 10.44%), the DISCERN-AI rating was scored as "good" quality (mean 13.88, SD 0.93), and the Global Quality Score was high (mean 4.46/5, SD 0.50). Natural Language Assessment Tool for AI had pooled mean accuracy of 3.96 (SD 0.91), safety of 4.32 (SD 0.86), appropriateness of 4.45 (SD 0.81), actionability of 4.05 (SD 1.15), and effectiveness of 4.09 (SD 0.98). The readability algorithm consensus was "difficult to read" (Flesch Reading Ease score mean 45.97, SD 8.69; Gunning Fog Index mean 14.55, SD 4.79), averaging an 11th-grade reading level, equivalent to 15- to 17-year-olds (Flesch-Kincaid Grade Level mean 12.12, SD 4.34; The Coleman-Liau Index mean 12.75, SD 1.98; SMOG Index mean 11.06, SD 3.20). REF-AI identified 2 reference hallucinations, while the majority (28/30, 93%) of references appropriately supplemented the text. Most references (26/30, 86%) were from reputable government organizations, while a handful were direct citations from scientific literature.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis found that ChatGPT-4 provides generally good responses to common prostate cancer queries, making it a potentially valuable tool for patient education in prostate cancer care. Objective quality assessment tools indicated that the natural language processing outputs were generally reliable and appropriate, but there is room for improvement.

Association of the rs1042522 SNP with prostate cancer risk: a study of cancer tissues, primary tumor cultures, and serum samples from a Spanish Caucasian population

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths in European men, emphasizing the urgent need for effective risk assessment strategies. The TP53 gene, a tumor suppressor gene frequently mutated in cancer, commonly harbors the rs1042522 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), known as the P72R SNP, which may influence PCa susceptibility. This study investigated the prevalence of the P72R SNP in European Caucasian PCa samples and its association with PCa risk.

Methods

Genotyping was conducted on 12 hormone-naïve aggressive PCa cultures (hnPCs) from untreated patients (Gleason ≥8), 11 radical prostatectomies (RP), and 94 serum samples using DNA Sanger sequencing and melting curve analysis. Comparative analysis utilized data from the GnomAD database's European Caucasian non-cancer population.

Results

Our results demonstrate a significantly higher frequency of the P72R SNP in PCa samples and serums compared to the general European non-cancer population. A robust and statistically significant association (p < 0.0001) between the SNP and prostate cancer risk was identified, with an odds ratio of 7.937 (95% CI 5.37-11.00). Notably, the G allele (R72) showed a pronounced prevalence in high Gleason score (≥8) patients, although statistical significance was not reached. These results highlight a potential association with undifferentiated and malignant PCa lesions.

Conclusion

The compelling association between the P72R SNP and prostate cancer risk underscores the potential utility of this marker for the early identification of patients at risk of aggressive metastatic prostate cancer. This insight could empower further research to intervene at an early stage by offering enhanced opportunities for timely and targeted interventions.

Dual combination of resveratrol and pterostilbene aqueous core nanocapsules for integrated prostate cancer targeting

Aim: Development and evaluation of aqueous core nanocapsules (ACNs) of BCS-II-class drug like resveratrol (RSV) and pterostilbene (PTE) for prostate cancer.Materials & methods: Identify synergistic effects of molar ratios of RSV and PTE against PC-3 cell. Selected ratio of drugs was added to ACNs by double-emulsification-method using Box-Behnken design. Further, assessed for physicochemical characterization, release kinetics, compatibility, in vitro cytotoxicity, in vivo pharmacokinetic and biodistribution studies.Results: Selected 1:1 ratio of RSV and PTE had greatest synergy potential have smaller particle-size (128.1 ± 3.21 nm), zeta-potential (-22.12 ± 0.2 mV), 0.53 PDI, improved encapsulation (87% for RSV, 72% for PTE), stable, no systemic toxicity, high biodistributed/accumulated in prostate cells.Conclusion: ACNs exhibited high t1/2 (12.42 ± 1.92 hs) and 8.20 ± 8.21 hs Mean Residence Time and lower clearance, proving the high effectiveness for prostate cancer.

Comparative Study Analysis of Epstein-Barr Virus Infection: Tissue Versus Blood Samples in Patients With Prostatic Adenocarcinoma and Its Correlation With Clinicopathological Parameters

Prostate cancer (PCa) is the most frequently diagnosed cancer and a leading cause of cancer-related mortality in men. The diagnosis and treatment of PCa carry considerable medical, psychological, and economic implications. Among the risk factors contributing to cancer, viral infections, notably Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), play a significant role. It is recognized as an oncogenic virus associated with various lymphomas, nasopharyngeal carcinomas, and breast cancer cases but its role in PCa remains unclear. This study aims to contrast the prevalence of EBV in blood and tissue samples of PCa patients and assess its correlation with tumor clinicopathological criteria. In this prospective study, 50 fresh biopsies and 50 blood samples were collected from patients with a confirmed diagnosis of PCa. EBV DNA was detected using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A statistical analysis was then conducted to examine the correlation between EBV prevalence and PCa clinicopathological characteristics. EBV DNA was detected in 38% of PCa blood samples and 64% of PCa tissue samples, with a higher prevalence in tissue samples (p = 0.009). The statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between EBV infection and pathological Gleason score (p = 0.041) in PCa tissue, as well as pathological T-stage (p = 0.02) in PCa blood. The results show that patients with PCa have higher levels of EBV in their tissues than in their blood, suggesting that EBV may play an important role in the etiology of PCa. This paves the way for further research into the function of EBV as a potential biomarker in the development and progression of prostate carcinoma in order to combat oncogenic viruses.

Feasibility of Indirect Treatment Comparisons Between Niraparib Plus Abiraterone Acetate and Other First-Line Poly ADP-Ribose Polymerase Inhibitor Treatment Regimens for Patients with BRCA1/2 Mutation-Positive Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer

INTRODUCTION

Poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase inhibitors (PARPi) are a novel option to treat patients with metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Niraparib plus abiraterone acetate and prednisone (AAP) is indicated for BRCA1/2 mutation-positive mCRPC. Niraparib plus AAP demonstrated safety and efficacy in the phase 3 MAGNITUDE trial (NCT03748641). In the absence of head-to-head studies comparing PARPi regimens, the feasibility of conducting indirect treatment comparisons (ITC) to inform decisions for patients with first-line BRCA1/2 mutation-positive mCRPC has been explored.

METHODS

A systematic literature review was conducted to identify evidence from randomized controlled trials on relevant comparators to inform the feasibility of conducting ITCs via network meta-analysis (NMA) or population-adjusted indirect comparisons (PAIC). Feasibility was assessed based on network connectivity, data availability in the BRCA1/2 mutation-positive population, and degree of within- and between-study heterogeneity or bias.

RESULTS

NMAs between niraparib plus AAP and other PARPi regimens (olaparib monotherapy, olaparib plus AAP, and talazoparib plus enzalutamide) were inappropriate due to the disconnected network, differences in trial populations related to effect modifiers, or imbalances within BRCA1/2 mutation-positive subgroups. The latter issue, coupled with the lack of a common comparator (except for olaparib plus AAP), also rendered anchored PAICs infeasible. Unanchored PAICs were either inappropriate due to lack of population overlap (vs. olaparib monotherapy) or were restricted by unmeasured confounders and small sample size (vs. olaparib plus AAP). PAIC versus talazoparib plus enzalutamide was not possible due to lack of published arm-level baseline characteristics and sufficient efficacy outcome data in the relevant population.

CONCLUSION

The current randomized controlled trial evidence network does not permit robust comparisons between niraparib plus AAP and other PARPi regimens for patients with 1L BRCA-positive mCRPC. Decision-makers should scrutinize any ITC results in light of their limitations. Real-world evidence combined with clinical experience should inform treatment recommendations in this indication.

WNT5A is a putative epi-driver of prostate cancer metastasis to the bone

BACKGROUND

Current diagnostic tools are unable to distinguish low-grade indolent prostate cancer (PrCa) from that with a propensity to become metastatic and/or lethal. Recent evidence suggests that reprogramming of the transcriptome may drive the metastatic phenotype, and that this reprogramming is controlled, at least in part, by epigenetic changes to the DNA of cancer cells, including methylation. These changes, referred to as 'epigenetic drivers,' have previously been associated with cancer cell survival.

METHODS

Here, using Illumina Methylation EPIC array data of paired primary PrCa and metastatic bone samples, we identified WNT5A as a putative epi-driver of PrCa metastasis to the bone, which was further validated in vitro.

RESULTS

Significantly higher WNT5A methylation was observed in primary PrCa samples and 22Rv1 cells compared to metastatic bone samples and PC-3 cells. This higher methylation was associated with significantly lower WNT5A gene expression.

CONCLUSION

Given the limited effective therapies available for metastatic cancer sufferers, particularly those whose disease has metastasised to the bone, WNT5A presents as a potential putative target for therapy.

Cobalt Serum Level as a Biomarker of Cause-Specific Survival among Prostate Cancer Patients

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer diagnosed in men and the second leading cause of death in male cancer patients. The WHO suggests that cobalt is involved in the carcinogenesis of prostate cancer. There are, however, no studies associating cobalt levels and prostate cancer patient survival. In this study, 261 Polish prostate cancer (n = 261) patients were recruited into a prospective cohort between 2009 and 2015. Serum cobalt levels were measured using ICP-MS after prostate cancer diagnosis and before treatment. All study participants were assigned into quartiles (QI-QIV) based on the distribution of serum cobalt levels among censored patients. Univariable and multivariable COX regression models were used to calculate hazard ratios (HRs) for each serum cobalt level quartile. We found a significant relationship between high serum cobalt levels and poor prostate cancer patient total survival (HR = 2.60; 95% CI: 1.17-5.82; p = 0.02). In relation to prostate cancer patients who died as a result of other non-cancer causes, the association with high levels of cobalt was even stronger (HR = 3.67; 95% CI: 1.03-13.00; p = 0.04). The impact of high serum cobalt levels on overall survival of prostate cancer-specific-related deaths was not statistically significant.

Comparison of infection risk between enzalutamide and abiraterone in patients with prostate cancer

BACKGROUND

Enzalutamide and abiraterone may differ in their immunomodulatory effects, and the prednisone coadministered with abiraterone can be immunosuppressive. This study aimed to compare the risk of different types of infection in patients with prostate cancer receiving enzalutamide or abiraterone in combination with androgen deprivation therapy.

METHODS

Patients with prostate cancer receiving enzalutamide or abiraterone in addition to androgen deprivation therapy in Hong Kong between December 1999 to March 2021 were identified in this retrospective cohort study and followed up until September 2021, death, or crossover. Outcomes, including any sepsis, pneumonia, urinary tract infection, cellulitis or skin abscess, central nervous system infections, and tuberculosis, were analyzed as both time-to-event outcomes (multivariable Fine-Gray regression, with mortality considered a competing event) and recurrent-event outcomes (multivariable negative binomial regression).

RESULTS

Altogether, 1582 patients were analyzed (923 abiraterone users; 659 enzalutamide users) with a median follow-up of 10.6 months (interquartile range: 5.3-19.9 months). Compared to abiraterone users, enzalutamide users had lower cumulative incidences of sepsis (adjusted subhazard ratio [SHR] 0.70 [0.53-0.93], p = .014), pneumonia (adjusted SHR 0.76 [0.59-0.99], p = .040), and cellulitis or skin abscess (adjusted SHR 0.55 [0.39-0.79], p = .001), but not urinary tract infection (adjusted SHR 0.91 [0.62-1.35], p = .643). Associations between exposure and central nervous system infections and tuberculosis were not assessed because of low event rates. Analyzing the outcomes as recurrent events gave similar results. Enzalutamide use may be associated with a lower risk of urinary tract infection in patients with diabetes mellitus.

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to abiraterone users, enzalutamide users have significantly lower risks of sepsis, pneumonia, cellulitis, or skin abscess.

Tumoral periprostatic adipose tissue exovesicles-derived miR-20a-5p regulates prostate cancer cell proliferation and inflammation through the RORA gene

BACKGROUND

From the first steps of prostate cancer (PCa) initiation, tumours are in contact with the most-proximal adipose tissue called periprostatic adipose tissue (PPAT). Extracellular vesicles are important carriers of non-coding RNA such as miRNAs that are crucial for cellular communication. The secretion of extracellular vesicles by PPAT may play a key role in the interactions between adipocytes and tumour. Analysing the PPAT exovesicles (EVs) derived-miRNA content can be of great relevance for understanding tumour progression and aggressiveness.

METHODS

A total of 24 samples of human PPAT and 17 samples of perivesical adipose tissue (PVAT) were used. EVs were characterized by western blot and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and uptake by PCa cells was verified by confocal microscopy. PPAT and PVAT explants were cultured overnight, EVs were isolated, and miRNA content expression profile was analysed. Pathway and functional enrichment analyses were performed seeking potential miRNA targets. In vitro functional studies were evaluated using PCa cells lines, miRNA inhibitors and target gene silencers.

RESULTS

Western blot and TEM revealed the characteristics of EVs derived from PPAT (PPAT-EVs) samples. The EVs were up taken and found in the cytoplasm of PCa cells. Nine miRNAs were differentially expressed between PPAT and PVAT samples. The RORA gene (RAR Related Orphan Receptor A) was identified as a common target of 9 miRNA-regulated pathways. In vitro functional analysis revealed that the RORA gene was regulated by PPAT-EVs-derived miRNAs and was found to be implicated in cell proliferation and inflammation.

CONCLUSION

Tumour periprostatic adipose tissue is linked to PCa tumour aggressiveness and could be envisaged for new therapeutic strategies.

Glucocorticoid receptor action in prostate cancer: the role of transcription factor crosstalk

Prostate cancer is one of the most prevalent malignancies and is primarily driven by aberrant androgen receptor (AR) signaling. While AR-targeted therapies form the cornerstone of prostate cancer treatment, they often inadvertently activate compensatory pathways, leading to therapy resistance. This resistance is frequently mediated through changes in transcription factor (TF) crosstalk, reshaping gene regulatory programs and ultimately weakening treatment efficacy. Consequently, investigating TF interactions has become crucial for understanding the mechanisms driving therapy-resistant cancers. Recent evidence has highlighted the crosstalk between the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) and AR, demonstrating that GR can induce prostate cancer therapy resistance by replacing the inactivated AR, thereby becoming a driver of the disease. In addition to this oncogenic role, GR has also been shown to act as a tumor suppressor in prostate cancer. Owing to this dual role and the widespread use of glucocorticoids as adjuvant therapy, it is essential to understand GR's actions across different stages of prostate cancer development. In this review, we explore the current knowledge of GR in prostate cancer, with a specific focus on its crosstalk with other TFs. GR can directly and indirectly interact with a variety of TFs, and these interactions vary significantly depending on the type of prostate cancer cells. By highlighting these crosstalk interactions, we aim to provide insights that can guide the research and development of new GR-targeted therapies to mitigate its harmful effects in prostate cancer.

Relationship between Lesion Parameters after Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation in Striated Muscles and Parenchymal Tissue

Background and Objectives: Radiofrequency catheter ablation (RFCA) is a highly successful intervention. By comparing the lesion changes in prostate parenchymal and striated muscle tissues after RFCA with and without cooling, it was possible to assess the correlation between the shape regularity, area, and perimeter of the thermal lesion, and to predict the geometric shape changes of the lesions. Materials and Methods: A standard prostate and striated muscle RFCA procedure was performed on 13 non-purebred dogs in two sessions: no cooling and cooling with 0.1% NaCl solution. Microtome-cut 2-3 µm sections of tissue samples were stained with haematoxylin and eosin and further examined. The quotient formula was employed to evaluate the geometric shape of the damage zones at the ablation site. Results: The extent of injury following RFCA in striated muscle tissue was comparable to that in prostate parenchymal tissue. Regression analysis indicated a strong and positive relationship between area and perimeter in all experimental groups. In the experimental groups of parenchymal tissues with and without cooling, an increase in the area or perimeter of the damage zone corresponded to an increase in the quotient value. A similar tendency was observed in the striated muscle group with cooling. However, in the striated muscle group without cooling, an increase in lesion area or perimeter lowered the quotient value. Standardised regression coefficients demonstrated that in the striated muscle with cooling, the damage zone shape was more determined by area than perimeter. However, in the parenchymal tissue, the perimeter had a more substantial impact on the damage zone shape than the area. Conclusions: The damage area and perimeter have predictive power on the overall shape regularity of damage zone geometry in both striated muscles and parenchymal tissue. This approach is employed to achieve a balance between the need for tumour eradication and the minimisation of ablation-induced complications to healthy tissue.

In silico exploration of anti-prostate cancer compounds from differential expressed genes

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a complex and biologically diverse disease with no curative treatment options at present. This study aims to utilize computational methods to explore potential anti-PCa compounds based on differentially expressed genes (DEGs), with the goal of identifying novel therapeutic indications or repurposing existing drugs. The methods employed in this study include DEGs-to-drug prediction, pharmacokinetics prediction, target prediction, network analysis, and molecular docking. The findings revealed a total of 79 upregulated DEGs and 110 downregulated DEGs in PCa, which were used to identify drug compounds capable of reversing the dysregulated conditions (dexverapamil, emetine, parthenolide, dobutamine, terfenadine, pimozide, mefloquine, ellipticine, and trifluoperazine) at a threshold probability of 20% on several molecular targets, such as serotonin receptors 2a/2b/2c, HERG protein, adrenergic receptors alpha-1a/2a, dopamine D3 receptor, inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), epidermal growth factor receptor erbB1 (EGFR), tyrosine-protein kinases, and C-C chemokine receptor type 5 (CCR5). Molecular docking analysis revealed that terfenadine binding to inducible nitric oxide synthase (-7.833 kcal.mol-1) and pimozide binding to HERG (-7.636 kcal.mol-1). Overall, binding energy ΔGbind (Total) at 0 ns was lower than that of 100 ns for both the Terfenadine-iNOS complex (-101.707 to -103.302 kcal.mol-1) and Ellipticine-TOPIIα complex (-42.229 to -58.780 kcal.mol-1). In conclusion, this study provides insight on molecular targets that could possibly contribute to the molecular mechanisms underlying PCa. Further preclinical and clinical studies are required to validate the therapeutic effectiveness of these identified drugs in PCa disease.

A Compound That Inhibits Glycolysis in Prostate Cancer Controls Growth of Advanced Prostate Cancer

Metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer remains incurable regardless of recent therapeutic advances. Prostate cancer tumors display highly glycolytic phenotypes as the cancer progresses. Nonspecific inhibitors of glycolysis have not been utilized successfully for chemotherapy, because of their penchant to cause systemic toxicity. This study reports the preclinical activity, safety, and pharmacokinetics of a novel small-molecule preclinical candidate, BKIDC-1553, with antiglycolytic activity. We tested a large battery of prostate cancer cell lines for inhibition of cell proliferation, in vitro. Cell-cycle, metabolic, and enzymatic assays were used to demonstrate their mechanism of action. A human patient-derived xenograft model implanted in mice and a human organoid were studied for sensitivity to our BKIDC preclinical candidate. A battery of pharmacokinetic experiments, absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion experiments, and in vitro and in vivo toxicology experiments were carried out to assess readiness for clinical trials. We demonstrate a new class of small-molecule inhibitors where antiglycolytic activity in prostate cancer cell lines is mediated through inhibition of hexokinase 2. These compounds display selective growth inhibition across multiple prostate cancer models. We describe a lead BKIDC-1553 that demonstrates promising activity in a preclinical xenograft model of advanced prostate cancer, equivalent to that of enzalutamide. BKIDC-1553 demonstrates safety and pharmacologic properties consistent with a compound that can be taken into human studies with expectations of a good safety margin and predicted dosing for efficacy. This work supports testing BKIDC-1553 and its derivatives in clinical trials for patients with advanced prostate cancer.

Utility of PSMA-PET derived volumetric parameters in initial risk stratification and prediction of prostate cancer metastasis - a head-to-head comparison of the radiotracers 18F-PSMA-1007 and 68Ga-PSMA-11

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore and compare the utility of baseline 18F-PSMA-1007 and 68Ga-PSMA-11 PET/computed tomography (CT) derived volumetric parameters in initial risk stratification and prediction of prostate cancer (PCa) metastasis.

METHODS

Forty treatment-naïve, biopsy-proven intermediate-/high-risk PCa patients were prospectively recruited. Each patient underwent PET/CT with 68Ga-PSMA-11 and 18F-PSMA-1007 (within 2 weeks). The maximum and mean standardized uptake values (SUVmax and SUVmean) of primary tumor, prostate PSMA-tumor volume (PSMA-TVp), and prostate total lesion PSMA (TL-PSMAp) were measured.

RESULTS

PSMA-TVp and TL-PSMAp (with both radiotracers) mostly exhibited moderate-to-strong correlation with Gleason score, serum prostate-specific antigen level and clinical tumor stage (Spearman ρ = 0.361-0.783, P-values ≤0.022). Primary tumor SUVmax values were similar across initial risk categories. PSMA-TVp and TL-PSMAp, however, were significantly higher in high-risk PCa compared to intermediate-risk PCa (P-values ≤0.001). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis revealed that F-PSMA-TVp, Ga-PSMA-TVp, F-TL-PSMAp, and Ga-TL-PSMAp (optimal cutoff values of 20.9, 23.4, 142.5, and 144.8, respectively) could effectively differentiate high-risk from intermediate-risk PCa [area under the ROC curve (AUCs) 0.859-0.898, P-values <0.001] with high sensitivity (~68.8-75%) and excellent specificity (100%). PSMA-TVp and TL-PSMAp (with both radiotracers) could predict presence of regional and extraregional nodal metastasis (AUCs 0.703-0.801, P-values ≤0.03) with moderate sensitivity (~47.8-70.6%) and excellent specificity (~82.6-94.1%).

CONCLUSION

Our results suggest that baseline PSMA-PET primary tumor volumetric parameters provide a noninvasive, objective, and accurate index for initial risk stratification and can predict presence of regional and extraregional nodal metastasis in PCa patients. Larger studies are warranted to evaluate their incremental role over conventional parameters.

Vitamin D and prostate cancer prevention

Vitamin D is a hot topic nowadays, especially its relationship with cancer prevention. Normally, vitamin D is associated with bone health principally, but the new research has discovered an impact on immune function and cellular signaling, even in same studies talk about a hormone, however, the most important relationship is its implication in cellular processes, inhibiting cancer growth. For now, the recent studies are oriented about a benefit and a cause-effect relationship between prostate cancer and normal levels of vitamin D. This premise opens a lot of questions in this scenario. This editorial highlighted the most important studies in this area.

Racial disparity in prostate cancer: an outlook in genetic and molecular landscape

Prostate cancer (PCa) incidence, morbidity, and mortality rates are significantly impacted by racial disparities. Despite innovative therapeutic approaches and advancements in prevention, men of African American (AA) ancestry are at a higher risk of developing PCa and have a more aggressive and metastatic form of the disease at the time of initial PCa diagnosis than other races. Research on PCa has underlined the biological and molecular basis of racial disparity and emphasized the genetic aspect as the fundamental component of racial inequality. Furthermore, the lower enrollment rate, limited access to national-level cancer facilities, and deferred treatment of AA men and other minorities are hurdles in improving the outcomes of PCa patients. This review provides the most up-to-date information on various biological and molecular contributing factors, such as the single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), mutational spectrum, altered chromosomal loci, differential gene expression, transcriptome analysis, epigenetic factors, tumor microenvironment (TME), and immune modulation of PCa racial disparities. This review also highlights future research avenues to explore the underlying biological factors contributing to PCa disparities, particularly in men of African ancestry.

Regulatory and memory T lymphocytes infiltrating prostate tumors predict long term clinical outcomes

Introduction

The localization, density but mostly the phenotype of tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TIL) provide important information on the initial interaction between the host immune system and the tumor. Our objective was to assess the prognostic significance of T (CD3+), T regulatory (Treg) (FoxP3+) and T memory (Tmem) (CD45RO+) infiltrating lymphocytes and of genes associated with TIL in prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to assess the infiltration of CD3+, FoxP3+ and CD45RO+ cells in the tumor area, tumor margin and adjacent normal-like epithelium of a series of 98 PCa samples with long clinical follow-up. Expression of a panel of 31 TIL-associated genes was analyzed by Taqman Low-Density Array (TLDA) technology in another series of 50 tumors with long clinical follow-up. Kaplan-Meier and Cox proportional hazards regression analyses were performed to determine association of these markers with biochemical recurrence (BCR), need for definitive androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) or lethal PCa.

Results

TIL subtypes were present at different densities in the tumor, tumor margin and adjacent normal-like epithelium, but their density and phenotype in the tumor area were the most predictive of clinical outcomes. In multivariate analyses, a high density of Treg (high FoxP3+/CD3+ cell ratio) predicted a higher risk for need of definitive ADT (HR=7.69, p=0.001) and lethal PCa (HR=4.37, p=0.04). Conversely, a high density of Tmem (high CD45RO+/CD3+ cell ratio) predicted a reduced risk of lethal PCa (HR=0.06, p=0.04). TLDA analyses showed that a high expression of FoxP3 was associated with a higher risk of lethal PCa (HR=5.26, p=0.02). Expression of CTLA-4, PD-1, TIM-3 and LAG-3 were correlated with that of FoxP3. Amongst these, only a high expression of TIM-3 was associated with a significant higher risk for definitive ADT in univariate Cox regression analysis (HR=3.11, p=0.01).

Conclusion

These results show that the proportion of Treg and Tmem found within the tumor area is a strong and independent predictor of late systemic progression of PCa. Our results also suggest that inhibition of TIM-3 might be a potential approach to counter the immunosuppressive functions of Treg in order to improve the anti-tumor immune response against PCa.

A body shape index (ABSI) but not body mass index (BMI) is associated with prostate cancer-specific mortality: Evidence from the US NHANES database

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a common malignancy in males and obesity may play a role in its development and progression. Associations between visceral obesity measured by a body shape index (ABSI) and PCa mortality have not been thoroughly investigated. This study assessed the associations between ABSI, body mass index (BMI), and long-term PCa-specific mortality using a nationally representative US database.

METHODS

This population-based longitudinal study collected data of males aged ≥40 years diagnosed with PCa and who underwent surgery and/or radiation from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey database 2001-2010. All included participants were followed through the end of 2019 using the National Center for Health Statistics Linked Mortality File. Associations between PCa-specific mortality, BMI, and ABSI were determined using Cox proportional hazards regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis.

RESULTS

Data of 294 men (representing 1,393,857 US nationals) were analyzed. After adjusting for confounders, no significant associations were found between BMI (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] = 1.06, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.97-1.16, p = 0.222), continuous ABSI (aHR = 1.29, 95% CI: 0.83-2.02, p = 0.253), or ABSI in category (Q4 vs. Q1-Q3: aHR = 1.52, 95% CI: 0.72-3.24, p = 0.265), and greater risk of PCa-specific mortality. However, among participants who had been diagnosed within 4 years, the highest ABSI quartile but not in BMI was significantly associated with greater risk for PCa-specific mortality (Q4 vs. Q1-Q3: aHR = 5.34, 95% CI: 2.26-12.62, p = 0.001). In ROC analysis for this subgroup, the area under the curve of ABSI alone for predicting PCa-specific mortality was 0.638 (95% CI: 0.448-0.828), reaching 0.729 (95% CI: 0.490-0.968 when combined with other covariates.

CONCLUSIONS

In US males with PCa diagnosed within 4 years, high ABSI but not BMI is independently associated with increased PCa-specific mortality.

Mechanism and role of nuclear laminin B1 in cell senescence and malignant tumors

Nuclear lamin B1 (LMNB1) is a member of the nuclear lamin protein family. LMNB1 can maintain and ensure the stability of nuclear structure and influence the process of cell senescence by regulating chromatin distribution, DNA replication and transcription, gene expression, cell cycle, etc. In recent years, several studies have shown that the abnormal expression of LMNB1, a classical biomarker of cell senescence, is highly correlated with the progression of various malignant tumors; LMNB1 is therefore considered a new potential tumor marker and therapeutic target. However, the mechanism of action of LMNB1 is influenced by many factors, which are difficult to clarify at present. This article focuses on the recent progress in understanding the role of LMNB1 in cell senescence and malignant tumors and offers insights that could contribute to elucidating the mechanism of action of LMNB1 to provide a new direction for further research.

Increased mortality in acromegaly is due to vascular and respiratory disease and is normalised by control of GH levels-A retrospective analysis from the UK Acromegaly Register 1970-2016

CONTEXT

Epidemiological studies involving patients with acromegaly have yielded conflicting results regarding cancer incidence and causes of mortality in relation to control of growth hormone (GH) excess.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this retrospective cohort study is to clarify these questions and identify goals for treatment and monitoring patients.

METHODS

We studied 1845 subjects from the UK Acromegaly Register (1970-2016), obtaining cancer standardised incidence rates (SIR) and all causes standardised mortality rates (SMR) from UK Office for National Statistics, to determine the relationship between causes of mortality-age at diagnosis, duration of disease, post-treatment and mean GH levels.

RESULTS

We found an increased incidence of all cancers (SIR, 1.38; 95% CI: 1.06-1.33, p < .001), but no increase in incidence of female breast, thyroid, colon cancer or any measure of cancer mortality. All-cause mortality rates were increased (SMR, 1.35; 95% CI: 1.24-1.46, p < .001), as were those due to vascular and respiratory diseases. All-cause, all cancer and cardiovascular deaths were highest in the first 5 years following diagnosis. We found a positive association between post-treatment and mean treatment GH levels and all-cause mortality (p < .001 and p < .001), which normalised with posttreatment GH levels of <1.0 µg/L or meantreatment GH levels of <2.5 µg/L.

CONCLUSION

Acromegaly is associated with increased incidence of all cancers but not thyroid or colon cancer and no increase in cancer mortality. Excess mortality is due to vascular and respiratory disease. The risk is highest in the first 5 years following diagnosis and is mitigated by normalising GH levels.

New-generation androgen receptor signaling inhibitors (ARSIs) in metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC): pharmacokinetics, drug-drug interactions (DDIs), and clinical impact

INTRODUCTION

The therapeutic scenario of metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) has dramatically changed in recent years, with the approval of new-generation Androgen Receptor Signaling Inhibitors (ARSIs), in combination with the androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), which was the previous standard of care. Despite showing a similar clinical efficacy, ARSIs, all of which are administered orally, are different in terms of pharmacokinetic and drug-drug interactions (DDIs).

AREAS COVERED

This review covers the main pharmacokinetic characteristics of ARSIs that have been approved for the first-line therapy of mHSPC patients, underlying the differences among these molecules and focusing on the known or possible interactions with other drugs. Full-text articles and abstracts were searched in PubMed.

EXPERT OPINION

Since prostate cancer occurs mainly in older age, comorbidities and the consequent polypharmacy increase the DDI risk in mHSPC patients who are candidates for ARSI. Waiting for new therapeutic options, in the absence of direct comparisons, pharmacokinetic knowledge is essential to guide clinicians in prescribing ARSI in this setting.

From microbes to medicine: harnessing the gut microbiota to combat prostate cancer

The gut microbiome (GM) has been identified as a crucial factor in the development and progression of various diseases, including cancer. In the case of prostate cancer, commensal bacteria and other microbes are found to be associated with its development. Recent studies have demonstrated that the human GM, including Bacteroides, Streptococcus, Bacteroides massiliensis, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, Eubacterium rectale, and Mycoplasma genitalium, are involved in prostate cancer development through both direct and indirect interactions. However, the pathogenic mechanisms of these interactions are yet to be fully understood. Moreover, the microbiota influences systemic hormone levels and contributes to prostate cancer pathogenesis. Currently, it has been shown that supplementation of prebiotics or probiotics can modify the composition of GM and prevent the onset of prostate cancer. The microbiota can also affect drug metabolism and toxicity, which may improve the response to cancer treatment. The composition of the microbiome is crucial for therapeutic efficacy and a potential target for modulating treatment response. However, their clinical application is still limited. Additionally, GM-based cancer therapies face limitations due to the complexity and diversity of microbial composition, and the lack of standardized protocols for manipulating gut microbiota, such as optimal probiotic selection, treatment duration, and administration timing, hindering widespread use. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive exploration of the GM's involvement in prostate cancer pathogenesis. We delve into the underlying mechanisms and discuss their potential implications for both therapeutic and diagnostic approaches in managing prostate cancer. Through this analysis, we offer valuable insights into the pivotal role of the microbiome in prostate cancer and its promising application in future clinical settings.

Identifying Suitable Patients for Overcoming Androgen Deprivation Monotherapy in De Novo Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer

BACKGROUND

Although metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) treatments have evolved, androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) remains a widely used regimen. Therefore, this study sought patients who did not progress to castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) but received ADT monotherapy and factors affecting overall survival (OS) in de novo mHSPC.

METHODS

De novo mHSPC patients who received ADT treatment were included. ADT included luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone agonists with or without anti-androgen. The total cohort was divided into two groups relative to CRPC progression within two years. Logistic analysis was used to identify factors that did not progress CRPC within two years. Cox regression was used to assess the independent predictors for OS.

RESULTS

The total cohort was divided into the no-CRPC within two years group (n = 135) and the CRPC within two years group (n = 126). Through multivariate logistic analysis, the life expectancy (odds ratio [OR] 0.95, 95% CI 0.91-0.99, p = 0.014) and Gleason scores (≥9 vs. ≤8; OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.24-0.75, p = 0.003) were associated with the group without castration-resistant prostate cancer progression within two years. The multivariate Cox model revealed that life expectancy (hazard ratio [HR] 0.951, 95% CI 0.904-0.999, p = 0.0491), BMI (HR 0.870, 95% CI 0.783-0.967, p = 0.0101), and CCI (≥2 vs. <2; HR 2.018, 95% CI 1.103-3.693, p = 0.0227) were significant predictive factors for OS.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with long life expectancy and a Gleason score of 9 or more were more likely to develop mCRPC while alive. Patients with short life expectancy, low BMI, and worsening comorbidity were more likely to die before progressing to CRPC. Although intensified treatment is essential for oncologic outcomes in mHSPC, shared decision making is integral for patients who may not benefit from this treatment.

Genetic and biological drivers of prostate cancer disparities in Black men

Black men with prostate cancer have historically had worse outcomes than white men with prostate cancer. The causes of this disparity in outcomes are multi-factorial, but a potential basis is that prostate cancers in Black men are biologically distinct from prostate cancers in white men. Evidence suggests that genetic and ancestral factors, molecular pathways involving androgen and non-androgen receptor signalling, inflammation, epigenetics, the tumour microenvironment and tumour metabolism are contributing factors to the racial disparities observed. Key genetic and molecular pathways linked to prostate cancer risk and aggressiveness have potential clinical relevance. Describing biological drivers of prostate cancer disparities could inform efforts to improve outcomes for Black men with prostate cancer.

Estimating disparities of prostate cancer burden and its attributable risk factors for males across the BRICS-plus, 1990-2019: A comparable study of key nations with emerging economies

BACKGROUNDS

The study aimed to analyze epidemiology burden of male prostate cancer across the BRICS-plus, and identify potential risk factors by assessing the associations with age, period, birth cohorts and sociodemographic index (SDI).

METHODS

Data were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The average annual percent change (AAPC) was calculated to assess long-term trends, and age-period-cohort analysis was used to analyze these three effects on prostate cancer burden. Quantile regression was used to investigate the association between SDI and health outcomes.

RESULTS

The higher incidence and mortality were observed in Mercosur and SACU regions, increasing trends were observed in prostate cancer incidence in almost all BRICS-plus countries (AAPC > 0), and EEU's grew by 24.31% (%AAPC range: -0.13-3.03). Mortality had increased in more than half of countries (AAPC > 0), and SACU grew by 1.82% (%AAPC range: 0.62-1.75). Incidence and mortality risk sharply increased with age across all BRICS-plus countries and globally, and the peak was reached in the age group 80-84 years. Rate ratio (RR) of incidence increased with birth cohorts in all BRICS-plus countries except for Kazakhstan where slightly decrease, while mortality RR decreased with birth cohort in most of BRICS-plus countries. SDI presented significantly positive associations with incidence in 50 percentiles. The deaths attributable to smoking declined in most of BRICS-plus nations, and many countries in China-ASEAN-FTA and EEU had higher values.

CONCLUSION

Prostate cancer posed a serious public health challenge with an increasing burden among most of BRICS-plus countries. Age had significant effects on prostate cancer burden, and recent birth cohorts suffered from higher incidence risk. SDI presented a positive relationship with incidence, and the smoking-attributable burden was tremendous in China-ASEAN-FTA and EEU region. Secondary prevention should be prioritized in BRICS-plus nations, and health policies targeting important populations should be strengthened based on their characteristics and adaptability.

Treatment Challenges in a Patient With Two Distinct Malignancies and Brain Metastases

Prostate cancer (PC) is one of the leading causes of cancer death among men worldwide. Brain metastases from PC are very rare, often presenting in advanced stages of the disease, and are associated with a poor prognosis. Treatment is complex and may involve surgery or radiotherapy. We present the case of a 64-year-old male diagnosed with localized prostate adenocarcinoma, initially treated with pelvic radiotherapy associated with long-term hormonal treatment. While on this hormonal treatment, around one year after radical treatment initiation, he developed bilateral pulmonary metastases, histologically proven to be related to PC, defining a state of metastatic castration-resistant PC. He was asymptomatic and therefore treatment with enzalutamide was initiated. A partial response to the lung lesions was obtained and maintained for more than a year, at which time new mediastinal lymph node metastases were identified. An endobronchial ultrasound biopsy revealed metastases from carcinoma with neuroendocrine differentiation, favoring lung small-cell carcinoma. The patient started chemotherapy with carboplatin and etoposide, with a response. Due to the progression of the mediastinal lymph nodes after eight months, the patient had to undergo chemotherapy again, this time in combination with atezolizumab, with once again partial response. Given the possibility of drug interactions, enzalutamide was suspended during both cycles of chemotherapy and successfully reintroduced afterward. Three months after restarting enzalutamide, he began complaining of headaches. Brain imaging revealed a single frontobasal lesion, without evidence of simultaneous extracerebral progression. Considering the epileptogenic potential of enzalutamide, it was again suspended. The patient underwent surgery and histology revealed metastases of prostate adenocarcinoma, a very rare finding. Systemic re-staging after surgery revealed the progression of cerebral and extra-cerebral disease. The patient is currently proposed for treatment with whole brain radiotherapy and chemotherapy with docetaxel. This case demonstrates the difficulties associated with the diagnosis and treatment of a patient with two distinct neoplasms. Therapy choices were necessarily adjusted because of significant drug interactions. The diagnosis of brain lesions was the last complication, and it proved to be a challenge as it is a rare entity, with optimal management options not being well established.

Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen PET/CT Detection of Prostate Cancer Metastasis to Thyroid and Cricoid Cartilages

ABSTRACT

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT has revolutionized the imaging of prostate cancer. Historically, prostate cancer metastasis to thyroid and cricoid cartilages was thought to be exceedingly rare, with only a few reported cases in the literature. Prostate cancer metastasis to the laryngeal cartilages was detected in 4 of 221 patients who underwent imaging with 18 F-PSMA (Pylarify) or 68 Ga-PSMA (Illuccix) PET/CT for initial staging of high-risk prostate cancer or restaging evaluation in the setting of biochemical recurrence from April 2022 through October 2023. The increased sensitivity and specificity of PSMA PET/CT allow for the detection of previously occult metastatic disease.

Assessment of structural and activity-related contributions of various PIM-1 kinase inhibitors in the treatment of leukemia and prostate cancer

One of the most perilous illnesses in the world is cancer. The cancer may be associated with the mutation of different genes inside the body. The PIM kinase, also known as the serine/threonine kinase, plays a critical role in the biology of different kinds of cancer. They are widely distributed and associated with several biological processes, including cell division, proliferation, and death. Aberration of PIM-1 kinase is found in varieties of cancer. Prostate cancer and leukemia can both be effectively treated with PIM-1 kinase inhibitors. There are several potent compounds that have been explored in this review based on heterocyclic compounds for the treatment of prostate cancer and leukemia that have strong effects on the suppression of PIM-1 kinase. The present review summarizes the PIM-1 kinase pathway, their inhibitors under clinical trial, related patents, and SAR studies of several monocyclic, bicyclic, and polycyclic compounds. The study related to their molecular interactions with receptors is also included in the present manuscript. The study may be beneficial to scientists for the development of novel compounds as PIM-1 inhibitors in the treatment of prostate cancer and leukemia.

Journeying together: spousal experiences with prostate cancer in Ghana

Background

Prostate cancer (PCa) is a significant global health concern for men. In Sub-Saharan Africa, PCa rates witnessed a 69% increase from 1990 to 2010. Despite this, there is a dearth of literature examining the experiences of spouses of men with PCa in Africa, as the majority of studies concentrate primarily on men.

Methods

The study used a qualitative exploratory design, conducting in-depth face-to-face interviews with a semi-structured guide. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, with 35 recruited. Data was recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using content analysis, resulting in 2 themes and 11 subthemes.

Results

The research revealed that spouses providing care for husbands with PCa faced notable effects on their physical and emotional well-being. Notably, they reported experiencing leg pains due to prolonged sitting by their partners, as well as disruptions in sleep and a loss of appetite triggered by the hospital smell.

Conclusion

Women encounter challenges in caring for their partners with PCa. Understanding these experiences will contribute to improving public support and assistance. Future studies should concentrate on developing interventions to help them cope with these challenges.

Ultrasensitive PSA: rethinking post-surgical management for node positive prostate cancer

Introduction

Clinicians may offer patients with positive lymph nodes (pN1) and undetectable PSA following surgery for prostate cancer either observation or adjuvant therapy based on AUA, EAU, and NCCN guidelines considering standard PSA detection thresholds of <0.1ng/ml. Here we sought to investigate the outcomes of pN1 patients in the era of ultrasensitive PSA testing.

Methods

We queried the Northwestern Electronic Data Warehouse for patients with prostate cancer who were pN1 at radical prostatectomy and followed with ultrasensitive PSA. Patients receiving neoadjuvant treatment were excluded. We compared clinical characteristics including age, race, pre-operative PSA, Gleason grade, tumor stage, surgical margins, and nodal specimens to identify factors associated with achievement and maintenance of an undetectable PSA (defined as <0.01 ng/mL). Statistics were performed using t-test, Mann-Whitney U test, chi-squared analysis, and logistic regression with significance defined as p<0.05.

Results

From 2018-2023, 188 patients were included. Subsequently, 39 (20.7%) had a PSA decline to undetectable levels (<0.01 ng/mL) post-operatively at a median time of 63 days. Seven percent of these men (3/39) were treated with adjuvant RT + ADT with undetectable PSA levels. 13/39 (33.3%) had eventual rises in PSA to ≥0.01 ng/mL for which they underwent salvage RT with ADT. Overall, 23/39 (59%) patients achieved and maintained undetectable PSA levels without subsequent therapy at median follow-up of 24.2 mo. Compared to patients with PSA persistence after surgery or elevations to detectable levels (≥0.01 ng/mL), patients who achieved and maintained undetectable levels had lower Gleason grades (p=0.03), lower tumor stage (p<0.001), fewer positive margins (p=0.02), and fewer involved lymph nodes (p=0.02). On multivariable analysis, only primary tumor (pT) stage was associated with achieving and maintaining an undetectable PSA; pT3b disease was associated with a 6.6-fold increased chance of developing a detectable PSA (p=0.03).

Conclusion

Ultrasensitive PSA can aid initiation of early salvage therapy for lymph node positive patients after radical prostatectomy while avoiding overtreatment in a significant subset. 20% of patients achieved an undetectable PSA and over half of this subset remained undetectable after 2 years.

A Review with a Focus on Vaccinium-Berries-Derived Bioactive Compounds for the Treatment of Reproductive Cancers

Cancers of the reproductive organs, including prostate, bladder, ovarian, and cervical cancers, are considered the most common causes of death in both sexes worldwide. The genus Vaccinium L. (Ericaceae) comprises fleshy berry crop species, including cranberries, blueberries, lingonberries, bilberries, and bog bilberries, and are widely distributed in many countries. Flavonols, anthocyanins (ACNs), proanthocyanidins (PACs), and phenolic acids are the most bioactive compounds naturally found in Vaccinium berries and have been extensively used as anticancer agents. However, it remains uncertain whether Vaccinium bioactives have a therapeutic role in reproductive cancers (RCs), and how these bioactives could be effective in modulating RC-related signalling pathways/molecular genes. Therefore, this article aims to review existing evidence in the PubMed/MEDLINE database on Vaccinium berries' major bioactive compounds in RC treatment and unravel the mechanisms underlying this process.

Monitoring of singlet oxygen generation of a novel Schiff-base substituted silicon phthalocyanines by sono-photochemical studies and in vitro activities on prostate cancer cell

This study demonstrates the potential of sono-photodynamic therapy as an effective approach for enhancing singlet oxygen generation using the synthesized Schiff-base diaxially substituted silicon phthalocyanines. In photochemical studies, the singlet oxygen quantum yields (Φ∆) were determined as 0.43 for Si1a, 0.94 for Q-Si1a, 0.58 for S-Si1a, and 0.49 for B-Sia1. In sono-photochemical studies, the Φ∆ values were reached to 0.67 for Si1a, 1.06 for Q-Si1a, 0.65 for S-Si1a, and 0.67 for B-Sia1. In addition, this study demonstrates the therapeutic efficacy of phthalocyanines synthesized as sensitizers on the PC3 prostate cancer cell line through in vitro experiments. The application of these treatment modalities exhibited notable outcomes, leading to a substantial decrease in cell viability within the PC3 prostate cancer cell line. These findings highlight the potential of utilizing these synthesized phthalocyanines as promising therapeutic agents for prostate cancer treatment.

Cognitive-behavioral stress management program reduces postoperative psychological pressure and improves life quality in prostate cancer patients

OBJECTIVE

Cognitive-behavioral stress management (CBSM) improves mental status and quality of life (QoL) in cancer patients, while its impact on prostate cancer (PC) patients remains unknown. Thus, the study aimed at investigating the potency of CBSM program in ameliorating postoperative anxiety, depression, and QoL in PC patients.

METHODS

Totally, 160 postoperative PC patients were consecutively recruited followed by random assignments to either CBSM (N = 81) or usual care (UC) (N = 79) group as a 1:1 ratio. The patients received the corresponding interventions for 10 weeks then were followed up for 6 months.

RESULTS

CBSM group presented lower Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)-anxiety score and anxiety rate at month (M) 4 and M6 versus UC group (all P < 0.05), but not at M0, M1, and M2. Meanwhile, CBSM group exhibited a lower HADS-depression score versus UC group at M6 (P = 0.036) but no other timepoints; however, CBSM group showed no difference in depression rate versus UC group at any timepoints. Regarding the Quality-of-Life Questionnaire-Core30 (QLQ-C30) evaluation, CBSM group exhibited higher global health status scores at M1 (P = 0.010), M2 (P = 0.001), M4 (P = 0.029), and M6 (P = 0.015), higher functions score at M4 (P = 0.040) and M6 (P = 0.044), but a lower symptom score at M4 (P = 0.034) versus UC group; meanwhile, the above QoL indexes were not different at other timepoints between CBSM and UC groups.

CONCLUSION

CBSM serves as an effective caring program in relieving anxiety and depression as well as improving the QoL in postoperative PC patients.