Biomarker confirmed for detecting testicular cancer in men

Researchers at Cornell University have confirmed a new biomarker that can help detect malignant testicular germ cell tumors. These tumors are the most common solid cancers found in young men in the U.S. The study was published in February and used mice to show that certain microRNAs (miRNAs) are specific indicators of testicular cancer. These miRNAs help regulate genes and could be useful for early detection of this cancer, potentially even before birth. Robert Weiss, a professor involved in the study, noted that this research supports a shift toward less invasive cancer detection methods, such as liquid biopsies. These tests allow doctors to monitor cancer using blood samples. Testicular cancer diagnoses have risen nearly 40% in the last 50 years, especially in males aged 15 to 39. Despite this increase, these tumors generally respond well to treatment, with a five-year survival rate of around 95%. The research team focused on specific miRNAs that are present only in malignant testicular tumors. They used a mouse model that helped them explore tumor development and differentiate between cancer and non-cancer cells. Weiss emphasized the importance of using mouse models for cancer research, as they allow scientists to conduct studies that aren’t possible in humans. The researchers plan to further investigate the functions of the identified miRNAs and their potential roles in cancer treatment. The first author of the study is Amanda Loehr, a DVM student, and the research includes contributions from various co-authors, including specialists from both Cornell and a pediatric oncology center in the Netherlands.