Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Using Novel ELISA-Based Biomarkers: Insights into Inflammatory and Tumor-Specific Pathways.

BACKGROUND

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in men, and its early detection remains a considerable clinical challenge. Advances in biomarker research have pointed to the promising role of inflammatory and tumor-specific markers in improving diagnostic precision.

AIM OF THE STUDY: This study investigated the potential of novel ELISA-based biomarkers for the early detection of prostate cancer. It specifically examined the diagnostic significance of inflammatory markers-IL-8, TGF-β, MIC-1/GDF15, YKL-40, and NGF-alongside the tumor-specific biomarker PSMA, to aid in the identification of early-stage disease.

METHODOLOGY: A case-control study was conducted at Al-Habboubi Teaching Hospital over a six-month period (January-June 2024), involving 150 prostate cancer patients and 50 healthy controls aged 45-75 years. Biomarker levels (PSMA, IL-8, TGF-β, MIC-1/GDF15, YKL-40, and NGF) were measured using BioTech USA ELISA kits. The study protocol, including inclusion and exclusion criteria, was approved by the institutional review board.  Result: Significant differences were observed between patients and controls in socio-demographic variables, such as family history and BMI. Prostate cancer patients demonstrated substantially higher serum concentrations of PSMA, IL-8, TGF-β, MIC-1/GDF15, YKL-40, and NGF compared to healthy individuals (p < 0.001). Disease severity showed strong correlations with these biomarkers, particularly PSMA, highlighting their diagnostic and disease-monitoring potential.

CONCLUSION

The observed elevations of PSMA, IL-8, TGF-β, MIC-1/GDF15, YKL-40, and NGF in prostate cancer patients emphasize their value as diagnostic and prognostic indicators. These biomarkers reflect activation of inflammatory and tumor-specific pathways, supporting their clinical application in early detection and disease progression monitoring.