Dr. Gomella on Novel Biomarker Research in Prostate Cancer

Leonard G. Gomella, MD, professor, chair of the Department of Urology, and director of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Network, of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, discusses ongoing studies evaluating novel biomarkers in prostate cancer.

A series of ongoing studies are currently looking at single or groups of biomarkers in patients with prostate cancer, according to Gomella. The Society of Urologic Oncology is currently conducting a multicenter trial to determine the best approach to using prostate biomarkers in a rebiopsy for a patient who receives a negative biopsy, Gomella explains.

Current trials being conducted at the institutional level include My Prostate Score, which is another urine-based test undergoing study at the University of Michigan, Gomella continues. The Cleveland Clinic has an ongoing trial looking at the IsoPSA test to determine whether it can assist in the diagnosis of prostate cancer, Gomella says. The use of biomarkers in prostate cancer is an expanding area, and though FDA- and CLIA-approved tests are currently available, many more are being studied in the pipeline, Gomella concludes.