In a groundbreaking study published in Cell Genomics, researchers from the University of Oxford and the University of Manchester have harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to uncover two distinct subtypes of aggressive prostate cancer. This discovery could have a revolutionary impact on how this common cancer is diagnosed and treated, potentially saving thousands of lives in the future.

Prostate cancer affects approximately one in eight men in their lifetime, with around 52,000 cases reported annually in the UK alone. However, the researchers' use of AI to analyze DNA data has revealed that the disease encompasses two different subtypes, known as "evotypes." This new understanding could pave the way for personalized treatments tailored to each individual patient's genetic profile.

The study involved an international team of scientists, including those from the University of East Anglia and the Institute of Cancer Research in London. By examining genetic data from thousands of prostate cancer samples across nine countries, the researchers were able to classify tumors based on their evolutionary trajectory rather than individual gene mutations or expression patterns.

Lead researcher Dr. Dan Woodcock from the University of Oxford explained, "Our research demonstrates that prostate tumors evolve along multiple pathways, leading to two distinct disease types. This understanding is pivotal as it allows us to classify tumors based on how the cancer evolves, providing a more accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment decisions."

Crucially, the researchers collaborated with Cancer Research UK to develop a genetic test that, when combined with traditional staging and grading methods, can provide a more precise prognosis for each patient. This personalized approach could spare men from unnecessary treatments, reducing side effects such as incontinence and impotence.

The use of AI was key in the research, as the scientists utilized a technique called neural networks to identify the two cancer groups among the patient samples. This finding was further validated in independent datasets from Canada and Australia, reinforcing the significance of the discovery.

Dr. Naomi Elster, Director of Research at Prostate Cancer Research, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating, "Understanding the different subtypes of prostate cancer can lead to better diagnosis and tailored treatments. This knowledge may also have implications for researchers working in other cancer fields, allowing for a deeper understanding of various types of cancer."

Looking ahead, the researchers hope to refine their genetic test and continue to advance personalized treatments for prostate cancer patients. The study underscores the crucial role of data sharing and collaborative research efforts in driving progress against cancer.

Professor Ros Eeles from The Institute of Cancer Research in London added, "These results will hopefully lead to better treatments for patients, demonstrating the importance of data sharing and team science."

The findings of this study, which shed new light on prostate cancer's complexity, have the potential to transform the future of diagnosis and treatment. With AI as a powerful tool, scientists are taking important steps towards overcoming this disease and improving outcomes for patients worldwide.

More information about the study can be found in the article "Genomic evolution shapes prostate cancer disease type" published in Cell Genomics (doi: 10.1016/j.xgen.2024.100511).