New 'iClusters' identify five subtypes of prostate cancer

Conclusion Using DNA analysis, this study identified five subgroups (iClusters) of prostate cancer. A large portion of the iCluster-discriminating genes were not previously known to be linked to prostate cancer – an interesting finding in itself. The hope is the iClusters might help doctors treat the disease better based on their specific genetic signature. However, this study focused on developing reliable subgroups. It did not look at whether the groups improved treatment, disease progression or death rates from prostate cancer. This research is yet to be carried out. One of the main limitations of the research is it used biochemical relapse to estimate survival. This may not be accurate and reduces the ability of the iClusters to predict future survival at this stage. Dr Alastair Lamb, quoted by BBC Online, said: "The next step is to confirm these results in bigger studies and drill down into the molecular 'nuts and bolts' of each specific prostate cancer type." Also on BBC Online, Dr Iain Frame, of Prostate Cancer UK, said: "For men to truly benefit from these findings, it is now vital that the research community comes together to confirm the most efficient methods for testing for different types of prostate cancer that can be brought to the clinic." Links To The Headlines Prostate cancer: Five types 'found'. BBC News, July 30 2015 Prostate cancer could actually be five different diseases, say scientists. The Independent, July 30 2015 'Five types...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Cancer Medical practice Source Type: news