New blood test could diagnose prostate cancer more accurately

Researchers at the University of Cambridge are developing a blood test that detects DNA methylation markers to indicate whether prostate cancer is present and how aggressive it is, and clinical trials in UK patients are planned within 18–24 months.

Researchers at the University of Cambridge are developing a blood test intended to diagnose prostate cancer more precisely. The test analyses DNA methylation markers shed by cancer cells into the bloodstream. Current prostate-specific antigen (PSA) testing is used for men with symptoms but has been judged too unreliable for general population screening by UK advisers. The new test is being developed to indicate both presence of cancer and its likely aggressiveness. Key facts: - The work is led by the university's Early Cancer Institute and by researcher Dr Harveer Dev. - The test detects DNA methylation markers and checks thousands of signals at once to improve detection efficiency. - Researchers are assessing accuracy using blood samples from more than 1,000 men in Europe and Africa, including samples donated up to 30 years ago with follow-up data. - Developers say the test aims to show whether cancer is present and how fast-growing it is, which may reduce the need for invasive biopsies in some cases. - Clinical trials in UK patients are planned within the next 18 to 24 months to examine when the blood test should be used during screening, such as before or after PSA testing. Summary: If validated, the test is intended to give clinicians more detailed information about whether prostate cancer is present and how aggressive it may be. The next formal step is the planned clinical trials in the UK within 18–24 months; broader changes to screening policy are undetermined at this time.