NPRL2 gene expression as a predictor of biochemical recurrence after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate the potential prognostic role of nitrogen permease regulator-like 2 (NPRL2) gene expression in predicting biochemical recurrence (BCR) following robot-assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP).

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

This single-center retrospective study included patients who underwent RARP performed by three different surgeons. Clinicopathological data and NPRL2 expression in tumor tissues were evaluated immunohistochemically (IHC). The level of NPRL2 staining was quantitatively assessed using an IHC score based on staining intensity. Factors associated with BCR were analyzed using multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A preoperative PSA level > 10 ng/mL (OR: 4.10, 95% CI: 1.38-12.20, p = 0.011), an International Society of Urological Pathology (ISUP) grade group > 3 (OR: 4.39, 95% CI: 1.45-13.29, p = 0.009), and high NPRL2 expression (IHC score > 4) (OR: 3.82, 95% CI: 1.07-13.62, p = 0.039) were identified as independent risk factors for BCR.

CONCLUSION

High NPRL2 expression is associated with an increased risk of BCR following RARP. These findings suggest a potential prognostic value of NPRL2; however, further validation studies are needed due to the small sample size and the subjective nature of the assessment.

CLINICAL TRIAL NUMBER: Not applicable.