Document Type : Research Articles
Authors
1
Department of Basic Science, College of Nursing, Al Muthanna University, Al-Samawah City, Iraq.
2
Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Al-Ameed, Karbala, Iraq.
3
Scientific Affairs Department, University of Anbar, Al-Anbar, Iraq.
4
Department of Medical Laboratory Techniques, Mazaya University College, Thi-Qar, Iraq.
5
Thi-Qar Health Directorate, Al Habbobi Teaching Hospital, Thi-Qar, Iraq.
Abstract
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.
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