FormalPara Key Points

Genetic testing is an important part of personalized diagnosis and treatment of prostate cancer (PCa).

Recent clinical studies have highlighted specific genes (e.g., BRCA 1/2, PALB2, CHEK, HOXB13) and single nucleotide polymorphisms as special genes of interest.

One future goal of genetic testing is to detect men harboring an increased risk of lethal PCa.

1 Introduction

Prostate cancer (PCa) is one of the most common malignancies in developed countries [1]. Since the introduction of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurement in screening programs, the number of patients with metastatic disease has substantially reduced as diagnosis is often achieved at an early and thus curable stage of disease. However, highly aggressive variants of the disease are also associated with significant morbidity and mortality rates [2]. Therefore, the identification of aggressive and fatal forms of PCa that need urgent treatment is still a major challenge in clinical practice.

Family history (FH) is a primary risk factor for being diagnosed with PCa. Epidemiologic studies have shown that men with a first-degree relative (father and/or brother) with PCa are at increased risk of developing the disease [3]. According to the results of large trials, the proportion of PCa attributable to hereditary factors has been estimated at 5–15% [4,5,6]. A recently published cross-sectional study of 3607 unselected men with PCa [7] found pathogenic germline variants in 17.2% of the patients. Interestingly, 37% of these patients would not have met the current criteria for genetic testing, according to their FH and risk factors [7]. Furthermore, twin studies have confirmed a strong genetic association with a higher concordance rate (27 vs. 7%) observed for monozygotic twins than for dizygotic twins [8, 9]. The twin study by Lichtenstein et al. [8] reported that almost 42% of all PCa cases were attributed to inherited factors.

However, the impact of positive FH is variable and depends on several factors such as age, degree of relative, and extensive cancer pedigree. Carter et al. [10] reported that the cumulative proportion of PCa cases attributable to high-risk susceptibility alleles was 43% for men aged < 55 years but accounts for only 9% for men aged > 85 years. A recent meta-analysis also confirmed that men with an affected brother are at higher relative risk than men with an affected father (relative risk 3.4 vs. 2.2, respectively) [11]. Thus, it has been demonstrated that proper quantification of the FH should include the number of affected relatives, age at diagnosis, and status of close relatives, which in combination allow better estimation of the individual risk of being diagnosed with PCa [12].

A FH of breast cancer (BCa) and/or ovarian cancer (OCa) has also been identified as a risk factor associated with PCa development [13]. A well-designed study demonstrated that the estimated relative risk of being diagnosed with PCa was 2 for men with a first-degree relative (mother/sister) with BCa and 1.7 for those with a first-degree relative with OCa [14]. This risk may be associated with germline mutations in BCa genes 1 and 2 (BRCA1/2), which represent the most frequent event reported in the literature [13]. Generally, germline mutations are defined as any detectable gene variation occurring in germ cells associated with an increased risk of developing various cancers. These alterations are inheritable and can be passed on to offspring. Conversely, somatic mutations are alterations that can occur in the DNA sequence of each somatic cell from any organism. These gene alterations are commonly acquired and cannot be passed on to offspring. A broad integration of genetic testing of both germline and somatic variants is meaningful and reflects the molecular variability of the tumors and different clinical behaviors. In addition, the role of environmental factors has also been suggested to overestimate the hereditary impact. Admittedly, the risk associated with FH remains independently significant even after adjustment for environmental factors, reinforcing the role of genetic predisposition [15].

Nevertheless, some data remain inconclusive regarding the impact of this genomic and molecular heterogeneity on clinical outcomes and cancer management [16, 17]. However, emerging evidence in genetics, the development of new techniques, and the uptake of specific target therapies such as poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) inhibitors, has encouraged enhanced research in this area. A recent landmark review highlighted strong evidence that specific germline mutations are associated with an increased risk for high-grade PCa tumors and impact the clinical course [18]. Hart et al. [19] reported 17.4% germline mutations among patients with progressed metastatic castration-resistant PCa; to a large extent, these were identified in BRCA2. Furthermore, Loeb et al. [20] provided relevant data for precise recommendations for genetic testing for different professional societies as a key component of PCa management. As described in the review, genetic testing is broadly recommended in metastatic PCa with a focus on BRCA2; however, the recommendations for primary PCa vary between societies [20]. Szymaniak et al. [21] highlighted the challenges faced by practitioners with evidence increasingly supporting genetic workups for patients with PCa combined with a lack of experience in genetic testing in clinical practice.

Nevertheless, we are convinced that personalized medicine based on the evaluation of individualized risk profiles is the key for the future. With this review, we aim to elucidate current evidence on genetic testing in the primary diagnosis of PCa according to our predefined inclusion criteria. We also provide information on specific germline mutations associated with an increased risk of being diagnosed with PCa, accurate panels for multiple-gene testing, and pathogen single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). We also provide insight into genetic testing in regard to liquid biopsies and summarize the recommendations of different guidelines.

2 Methods

2.1 Search Strategies and Sources

A literature review of PubMed was performed in September 2020. Searches were restricted to studies published in English within the last 10 years. Keywords were used to predefine a MeSH (medical subject heading) term for the literature search, including hereditary AND prostate AND cancer AND genetic AND testing. Results were subsequently extracted and imported into an Excel sheet (Table 1 in the electronic supplementary material).

Table 1 Register of studies discussed in the manuscript
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2.2 Data Extraction and Eligibility Criteria

In total, 111 titles were retrieved in the primary database search, and the results were imported into an Excel spreadsheet (2013 version). Manual screening was performed to exclude duplicates. Articles were identified by reading the abstracts and, if there was still uncertainty, a full-text analysis was performed. We included only clinical studies that focused on genetic testing in the primary diagnosis of PCa. We excluded manuscripts with data based on animal or in vitro studies, that investigated other cancer entities, that did not include any genetic testing, or that did not report an impact on medical practice (e.g., insights on economic aspects or technical background of genetic testing). Review articles were also eliminated. After studies not meeting our inclusion criteria (see Sect. 2.3) were eliminated, all studies on genetic testing in the primary diagnosis of PCa were integrated into our analysis. MK performed the selection and extraction process. Studies related to genetic testing in advanced and metastatic PCa  were beyond the scope of this manuscript.

2.3 Evidence Synthesis

Of 109 initial studies, 15 were excluded from final analysis as they covered mainly the economic or psychological landscape of genetic testing. A further 19 publications presented the results of genetic testing associated with other cancer entities such as BCa. Four publications did not contain information on genetics. A further 16 reviews on genetic testing and two published consensus decisions were also excluded. After evaluation of all primary search results, 34 studies were included in the detailed analysis for this review. Figure 1 depicts the data selection process in a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) flowchart.

Fig. 1
figure 1

Flow chart of literature search

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3 Results

Our review provides an overview of the PCa genomic landscape with an emphasis on cardinal mutations and alterations consistently observed in the literature. Evidence from all 34 included clinical trials was grouped and summarized in suitable categories (Table 1). First, we present studies focusing on hereditary PCa compared with sporadic PCa (SPC). Next, we discuss studies of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) and Lynch syndrome (LS) and describe specific gene mutations and their impact on PCa, followed by a section on SNPs. We also report some studies focusing on multigene panel testing (MGPT) and cell-free DNA (cfDNA).

3.1 Hereditary Versus Sporadic Prostate Cancer

In recent years, advances in sequencing technologies, particularly high-throughput platforms, have permitted the discovery of novel genes responsible for cancer inheritance, facilitating efficient genetic screening. Generally, a hereditary cancer syndrome (HCS) is a genetic predisposition to certain types of cancer, often associated with an early disease onset, caused by inherited pathogenic variants (PVs) in one or more genes. Most HCSs exhibit autosomal dominant inheritance, for example, LS, Li–Fraumeni syndrome, or Cowden syndrome [22,23,24]. Hereditary PCa is defined based on FH and includes patients with three or more affected relatives or at least two relatives who have developed early-onset PCa (aged < 55 years) [16, 17]. In this section, we report on three trials in hereditary PCa.

Generally, the onset of hereditary PCa is 6–7 years earlier than that of SPC [16, 17]. Pakkanen et al. [25] compared the incidence and aggressiveness of PCa in a Finnish population of 202 families with 617 patients with familial PCa and a control group of 3011 patients with PCa without FH of PCa. Only men with two or more affected first-degree relatives were included in the familial PCa group. The results showed an earlier onset of PCa (mean age at diagnosis 66 years) and a higher initial PSA level (mean 12 ng/ml) in patients with familial PCa than in those with SPC (mean 68 years, PSA 9.5 ng/ml) [25].

However, there was no difference in T- or M-stage among patients who underwent prostatectomy. Interestingly, the familial PCa group had lower Gleason scores (GS), with a GS ≥ 8 seen in only 12% of the patients with familial PCa after prostatectomy, compared with 17% in the control group. Follow-up data showed that significantly more males with FH died from PCa (61 vs. 31%). A difference in cancer-specific survival (CSS) could not be demonstrated [25].

Beebe-Dimmer et al. [26] evaluated the risk of PCa in males with both familial PCa and HCS using a large database to identify patients with a known FH of either PCa, BCa, or OCa [26]. Of 619,630 included males, 5.9% were diagnosed with PCa. Among them, 7% of all PCa met the criteria for early-onset disease, 11% had lethal disease, and 41% were categorized as having clinically significant cancers. A positive FH of PCa was defined as two or more first- or second-degree relatives with PCa on the same bloodline, whereas hereditary PCa was characterized according to the following criteria: three or more first-degree relatives with PCa, three or more relatives spanning three generations out to third-degree relatives and all on the same ancestral line and at least two first- or second-degree relatives diagnosed with PCa before the age of 55 years. Patients with a background of familial PCa had a 2.3-fold increased risk of PCa, whereas patients with a FH of BCa, OCa, or LS had a modestly increased risk. Of note, hereditary PCa was associated with a nearly fourfold increased risk of early-onset PCa, clinically significant disease, and lethal features [26].

Recently, Chandrasekar et al. [27] prospectively assessed the prevalence of HCS and germline mutations among a cohort of probands reporting a FH of PCa [27]. Of 345 participants, 63.8% met the inclusion criteria for at least one HCS with a potential association with hereditary PCa. Interestingly, hereditary BCa or OCa was identified in a higher percentage of the African American patients than the Caucasian patients (90.2 vs. 74.6%). Furthermore, germline mutations were found in 19.5% of all patients with suspected hereditary PCa linked to an HCS [27].

In summary, a significant increased risk of being diagnosed with early-onset PCa was observed in patients with a FH of PCa.

3.2 Hereditary Non-polyposis Colorectal Cancer/Lynch Mutations

HNPCC, also called LS, is a syndrome based on a mutation in DNA mismatch-repair (MMR) genes and is a predisposing factor for the development of several cancer entities, predominantly colorectal cancer (CRC). Generally, all genes associated with MMR mechanisms can display mutations in LS, but the most common alterations involve MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, PMS2, and EpCAM. Investigation of the occurrence of PCa in families enriched for LS suggested an increased risk of sentinel coexistence in the current literature [28]. We identified three relevant studies on this topic, which we now discuss in detail.

Kerr et al. [29] performed a subcohort analysis of the IMPACT trial that included mainly patients with a FH of LS. One of four such patients was diagnosed with a GS 6 PCa and underwent radical prostatectomy. Genetic testing confirmed a family mutation of the MSH6 gene [29].

Similarly, another working group analyzed the risk of developing PCa in 11 patients with LS [30]. Within the cohort, two patients were carriers of MSH2 mutations, two of MSH6, one of MLH1, and one of PMS2. Overall, this trial showed that patients with LS had an almost fivefold increased risk of developing PCa compared with the general population. Of these patients with PCa, 72% were diagnosed with localized tumor, 14% with locally advanced cancer, and 14% with metastatic disease. One limitation of this article was that the disease status of four cases could not be determined, and a classification according to GS was not included in the report. In accordance with their conclusions, no correlation with early-onset PCa or aggressiveness was observed [30].

Another study aimed to identify the prevalence of various urological cancers among patients with LS [24]. In total, 821 male Lynch mutation carriers and their untested male first-degree relatives were identified from a Manchester regional LS database. The primary endpoint was time to development of urological malignancy. Eight patients with PCa were identified, among them one patient aged < 60 years at diagnosis. Statistical analysis performed in this trial reported in an almost tenfold increased risk of developing PCa in MSH2 carriers. No such association was found for bladder cancer, and a correlation between MSH2 and MLH1 mutations and upper tract urothelial carcinomas was confirmed [24].

In summary, the combination of evidence from molecular and risk studies in the current literature supports an association between PCa and LS, so PCa screening should be recommended in mutation carriers. Note that two of four reported studies assessed a small cohort of patients, so the resulting data should be evaluated with caution.

3.3 Specific Predisposition Genes

3.3.1 BRCA1/2

BRCA1/2 genes are important for genomic stability and are predominantly involved in the process of double-strand DNA damage repair mechanisms during the cell cycle [13]. Mutations in BRCA1/2 genes are mostly known for their increased risk for the development of BCa [13]. However, inherited mutations in BRCA genes are associated with an increased risk of developing OCa, PCa, and other cancers. We report the results of eight clinical trials focusing on associations between BRCA1/2 mutations and the incidence of PCa.

A large international multicenter screening study (IMPACT) addressed this issue by comparing patients with BRCA1/2 germline mutations and non-mutation carriers [31, 32]. Men with a PSA level > 3 ng/ml aged 40–69 years underwent PSA testing and transrectal ultrasound-guided biopsy, and those with a PSA level < 3 ng/ml underwent further annual PSA measurements. The first results were published in 2014, after 1 year of screening, and already revealed an increased detection rate of PCa among BRCA mutation carriers [31]. Subsequently, a subset analysis of 47 men with an FH of BRCA1/2 mutations was published and showed that one in seven (14%) BRCA1 and one in 20 (5%) BRCA2 mutation carriers were diagnosed with PCa [29]. Interestingly, no single case of PCa was found among the non-carrier patients who underwent biopsy (no BRCA1/2) [29]. Recently, the interim data of the large IMPACT study in 3027 patients with verified BRCA1/2 mutations and non-mutation carriers (919 BRCA1 carriers, 709 BRCA1 non-carriers, 902 BRCA2 carriers, 497 BRCA2 non-carriers) who underwent PSA screening over 3 years was published [32]. A total of 357 biopsies were performed, with subsequent diagnosis of 112 PCa cases. According to study results, higher biopsy compliance was seen in BRCA2 carriers than in BRCA2-negative patients (73% vs. 60%). Furthermore, a higher incidence rate per 1000 males/year was seen for BRCA2 carriers, with a noticeable earlier onset of disease (61 vs. 64 years; p = 0.04) as well as a higher percentage of clinically significant cancers compared with BRCA2 non-carriers (77% vs. 40%; p = 0.01) [32]. Interestingly, no different clinical characteristics were found in the group of BRCA1 mutation carriers [32].

Maia et al. [33] assessed the incidence of BRCA1/2 mutations or LS in 462 males with early-onset PCa or hereditary PCa [33]. All patients were tested for six germline mutations that are particularly common in Portugal, and 38 of them were selected for complete sequencing of BRCA1/2 and/or MLH1, MSH2, and MSH6. Two patients harbored the same MSH2 mutation, and a third patient carried a Portuguese BRCA2 founder mutation. None of the alterations were identified in the 288 control subjects. Furthermore, they reviewed 62 PCa diagnoses in all hereditary BCa/OCa (n = 161) and LS (n = 124) families previously diagnosed and found five more BRCA2 mutation carriers and two additional MSH2 mutation carriers. Interestingly, the clinico-pathological characteristics of mutation carriers were in line with earlier data suggesting an aggressive PCa phenotype [33].

A recent landmark study elucidated the association between BRCA1/2 mutations and high-risk PCa [34]. A large multicenter database had 6500 male BRCA1/2 mutation carriers eligible for analysis. The primary endpoint was to evaluate whether gene mutations were associated with risk of overall PCa and high-grade tumors. Results demonstrated that specific BRCA2 mutations may be associated with an elevated risk of developing aggressive PCa. Specific pathogenic sequence variants in the genome, named “prostate cancer cluster regions” were identified on BRCA2 genes. In contrast, mutations in BRCA1 were not associated with a higher risk of developing PCa. The study results suggested specific PVs in BRCA2 that might be useful as an additional factor in screening for clinically significant PCa [34]. Similarly, Mersch et al. [35] evaluated a cohort of 1072 mutation carriers and revealed an increased age-specific risk of developing PCa in males with BRCA2 mutations compared with the general population.

A large international retrospective multicenter study included data from 6902 males carrying BRCA1/2 mutations [36]. In total, 1376 patients had at least one malignancy. Again, harboring a BRCA2 mutation was associated with a higher risk of being affected by any cancer, with the highest frequency reported for BCa and PCa. The mean age for the diagnosis of PCa was 63.2 years. This study also confirmed that there were significantly more BRCA2 mutation carriers than BRCA1 mutation carriers in the PCa group. Similarly, more aggressive cancers were reported in BRCA2 variants [36]. An additional finding reported by Chandrasekar et al. [27] was that germline mutations were most frequently found in BRCA genes in African American men, whereas they were found in a broad spectrum of predisposition genes in Caucasian men, suggesting a higher frequency of BRCA mutations in the African American population [27].

In summary, the impact of BRCA1/2 mutations on PCa development has been broadly demonstrated, with studies showing that faults in the BRCA2 gene have an increased risk of being associated with PCa and mainly in aggressive forms.

3.3.2 CHEK2

Checkpoint kinase 2 (CHEK2) is a tumor-suppressor gene involved in the process of DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell-cycle arrest. Its mutation confers an increased risk for BCa, but its involvement in PCa has not been confirmed. With the aim of clarifying the association between CHEK2 mutation and PCa risk, we present the results of three studies on this topic.

Sutcliffe et al. [37] analyzed different phenotypes of CHEK2 mutation associated with the occurrence of various malignancies. PVs in CHEK2 mutation were analyzed in 2508 patients (93% females; 83% Caucasians). Along with mainly heterozygous CHEK2 mutations, 21 patients expressed biallelic CHEK2 PVs. Among the heterozygous CHEK2 study group, the most frequently reported malignancies were female BCa (59.9%), PCa (20.1%), and male BCa (11.8%). In the homozygous group, female (72%) and male (66%) BCa and CRC (12%) were most commonly recorded [37].

Southey et al. [38] aimed to evaluate the risk of PCa in patients with rare variants of CHECK2, PALB2, and ATM. Ten different genotypes were analyzed in 22,301 patients with PCa and 22,320 controls. Their results revealed evidence for an elevated PCa risk in African males with a CHEK2 c.1343T>G variant and for European males with a CHEK2 c.1312G>T variant [38].

A large clinical trial published by Cybulski et al. [39] included 2907 patients and evaluated the impact of genotyping (18 different alleles) on the detection of PCa in primary screening. PSA levels and digital rectal examination (DRE) status were determined at study inclusion. A prostate biopsy was performed in 323 patients with PSA ≥ 4 ng/ml or a positive DRE status. All patients were genotyped for various alleles in BRCA1, CHEK2, NBS1, and HOXB13 and for nine low-risk SNPs. Study results showed that PCa was diagnosed on the basis of PSA and DRE status in only 4.6% of enrolled patients. Instead, genotyping results revealed that only patients with a mutation in one CHEK2 allele (I157T) combined with elevated PSA/abnormal DRE had a higher PCa detection rate (10.2%). Moreover, the probability of PCa being detected increased with the number of variant SNP genotypes observed, from 1.2% for carriers of no risk genotype to 8.6% for carriers of six or more risk genotypes [39].

In summary, an increased risk for the development of PCa was observed in CHEK2 mutation carriers.

3.3.3 HOXB13

Homebox protein 13 (HOXB13) is involved in the embryological process of organ differentiation and regulates the activity of other genes. Given our understanding of its influence on the transcription of androgen receptor target genes, a correlation with PCa was suggested. We present the evidence provided by four clinical trials investigating HOXB13.

Ewing et al. [40] conducted one of the first studies to address the potential increased risk for PCa in patients with germline mutation in HOXB13. The study population included subjects with PCa who had at least one living first- or second-degree relative with PCa, or those diagnosed before the age of 55 years, or families with hereditary disease; each had at least three first-degree relatives with PCa. Healthy males undergoing screening for PCa were selected as the control group. The genotype data of 5083 patients with PCa and 1401 healthy controls were analyzed. In total, 1.4% of patients in the PCa group and 0.1% of those in the control group were identified as G84E HOXB13 carriers (odds ratio 20) [40]. However, a subgroup analysis adjusted for age of diagnosis and FH showed that G84E mutation carriers had significantly earlier disease onset and a positive FH of PCa [40]. Furthermore, the group with early-onset disease and a positive FH had the highest mutation carrier rate [40].

Similarly, Heise et al. [41] recently investigated the incidence of G84E germline mutation of HOXB13 in patients with PCa. A mutation in HOXB13 was found in 2.3% of all patients with PCa but in none of the healthy controls. The authors reported that 66% of mutation carriers had a positive FH that met the criteria for the definition of hereditary PCa. Furthermore, their 5-year follow-up data indicated that overall survival (OS) was shorter in HOXB13 mutation carriers than in negative patients, although mutation carriers were older at disease onset [41]. No correlation with PSA level or clinical stage of disease at diagnosis was reported [41].

Another population study on G84E mutation of HOXB13 in 1384 participants with early-onset (< 60 years) PCa in Australia observed a G84E mutation in 1.4% of the study participants. Of the group with G84E mutations, six males (32%) had an FH of PCa. Therefore, the age-specific incidence for carriers was estimated to be 16.4 times that for the general Australian population [42].

A similar study performed genotyping for a G84E mutation in 8652 patients with PCa and 5252 healthy controls [43]. A G84E mutation was found in 1.5% of patients with PCa compared with 0.5% of the healthy males, indicating a 2.9-fold increased risk. This study also reported an enhanced risk for patients with an FH or early-onset PCa. No correlation with clinical stage, GS, or PSA level was observed. Moreover, no impact on OS or CSS rates was observed, so no prognostic value could be verified [43].

In conclusion, a highly increased risk for PCa among HOXB13 mutation carriers (up to 20-fold) was found.

3.4 Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Genotyping

An SNP is defined as a single base pair mutation at a specific locus [44]. Some SNPs have proven to be related to the development of various diseases and are currently used extensively to set up genetic screening programs for malignancies. We included four relevant studies investigating the impact of SNPs on PCa.

Seibert et al. [44] recently developed a polygenetic hazard score (PHS) that could predict the age of onset of aggressive PCa (defined as ≥ GS 7, T3–T4, PSA ≥ 10 and/or nodal/distant metastasis) based on the analysis of 54 SNPs and large patient databases [44]. This tool might therefore be useful in clinical practice when counseling patients on their risk and to identify the optimal age to start PCa screening in each patient [44]. Recently, this score was further improved by including age-specific PCa incidence data collected from large data registers [45]. The combination of this information with the PHS enabled the design of a personal risk calculator with better predictive accuracy in detecting clinically significant PCa at a specific age than the standard risk evaluation [45].

Given that SNPs do not only occur in patients with hereditary disease, Cremers et al. [46] recently elucidated the potential role of specific SNPs in differentiation between SPC and hereditary PCa. In total, 74 SNPs were genotyped in a population-based series of 620 patients with SPC, 313 patients with hereditary PCa, and 1819 healthy males [46]. The study reported 62 SNPs associated with SPC and 64 SNPs in patients with hereditary PCa. However, there was an overlap of 56 SNPs in both groups, suggesting a similarity in genetic ethology and only a small difference recorded, although groups clearly differed from the controls. Consequently, the authors considered SNPs to have no discriminative value for SPC and hereditary PCa [46].

Wallander et al. [47] aimed to identify potential SNPs in patients with CRC, gastric cancer, or PCa. A total of 45 families with at least two members with CRC and at least one with PCa or gastric cancer were analyzed. Families with both LS and polyposis syndrome in their history were excluded. The linkage analysis identified five potential loci for concordant SNPs, but further assessment of the exome did not reveal any potential pathologic sequence [47].

In summary, the occurrence of specific SNPs is clearly more common in patients with PCa than in healthy males, and the risk of disease development seems to be proportionally related to an increasing number of SNPs.

3.5 Multigene Panel Testing

Because screening for one specific gene mutation is often insufficient, the implementation of specific gene panels for different tumor entities is gaining increasing interest. However, a clearly predefined screening panel able to identity patients with an increased risk of PCa is still lacking, so the need for development is high [48]. This section discusses five studies that used MGPT to assess the risk of developing PCa.

Pritzlaff et al. [48] recently published data on a gene panel (ProstateNext) including mutations in BRCA1/2, ATM, BRIP1, CHEK2, NBN, BRAD1, and MMR-deficiency genes (MSH2, MSH6, MLH1, PMS2, EpCAM). MGPT was performed in 1878 males diagnosed with PCa between 2012 and 2017; 9.4% were positive for the applied 14-gene panel ProstateNext. PVs were most frequently found in BRCA2 (3.8%), ATM (2.7%), and CHEK2 (2.5%) but were also seen in all other tested genes except for RAD51D. Mutations in genes influencing therapeutic strategies in later stages of the disease (BRCA1/2, MMR genes) were found in 7.4% of all patients with PCa [48]. Since the occurrence of multiple cancers in patients might be another indicator of underlying genetic mutations, Pilié et al. [49] performed MGPT in patients with PCa and at least one other associated malignancy. The authors sequenced germline DNA from 102 patients with PCa using a MGPT and identified around 3500 variants. Nine protein-changing germline mutations were found across the following six genes: BRCA2, ATM, MLH1, BRIP1, PALB2, and FGFR3. Furthermore, likely pathogenic missense variants were found in HOXB13 and CHEK2. Considering that pathologic or likely pathologic germline mutations were found in 10.8% of all included males, a higher risk for underlying mutations in cancer-predisposing genes must be assumed in patients with PCa and at least one additional tumor entity [49].

A landmark study published by Rosenthal et al. [50] analyzed a panel of 25 genes tested in 252,233 individuals. The majority of the study population (92.8%) met testing criteria for hereditary BCa and OCa and/or LS. Overall, 17,340 PVs were identified in 17,000 (6.7%) tested individuals. The PV-positive rate was 9.8% among those with a personal cancer history compared with 4.7% in unaffected individuals. PVs were most common in BRCA1/2 (42.2%) and other BCa genes (32.9%) as well as the LS genes (13.2%). Half the PVs identified among individuals who met only hereditary BCa and OCa-testing criteria were in genes other than BRCA1/2. Similarly, half of the PVs identified in individuals who met only LS-testing criteria were in non-LS genes. Furthermore, PVs associated with PCa were found in 15.5% of all tested individuals. These findings suggest that genetic testing with a pan-cancer panel provides relevant data with enhanced clinical utility over traditional single-gene or single-syndrome testing [50].

Another large study recently performed in Japan also analyzed PVs on the basis of an eight-gene panel in 7636 patients with PCa and 12,366 cancer-free control patients [51]. Of the patients with PCa, 2.8% were carriers of a PV compared with 0.8% of patients in the control group. A total of 136 PVs were found, but association with PCa risk was only statistically significant for variants located in BRAC2, HOXB13, and ATM. Another finding from this large study population was that patients who harbored PVs were younger at diagnosis and had a FH of BCa or pancreatic, lung, or liver cancer [51].

Another recently published study investigated the difference in germline mutations among patients with PCa with different ethnic backgrounds [52]. The study included 1351 men with PCa: 78% Caucasian, 11% Jewish, 3% African American/Canadian, 2% Hispanic, 2% Asian/Pacific Islands, and 4% “others”. Overall, 13.8% of all males were carriers of a gene variant, the most frequent being BRCA2 (3.4%), CHEK2 (2.8%), MUTYH (1.8%), and ATM (1.7%). Of note, HOXB13 was not included in this panel. Unlike the data published by Chandrasekar et al. [27], this study [52] did not reveal a correlation between specific genetic variants and different ethnicities. Interestingly, an increased number of patients (6.7%) in the Jewish population had a BRCA2 variant compared with 2.8% of Caucasians [52].

In summary, MGPT represents the most promising tool available for gathering robust genetic information from patients in primary cancer screening.

3.6 Germline Mutation Testing in Cell-Free Circulation Tumor DNA

Given that genetic testing of tissue samples is often associated with tissue biopsies (if no archival tissue of the primary tumor or metastases is available), the development of non-invasive approaches is important. Liquid biopsies are increasingly gaining importance in modern oncology as a tool for germline testing using cfDNA from solid tumors, saliva, skin biopsies, or even the buccal mucosa [53]. For more information, refer to a recent review by Cheng et al. [53].

Slavin et al. [54] analyzed germline mutations in the cfDNA of patients with various advanced solid tumors, including PCa. cfDNA samples from 10,888 patients who underwent a liquid biopsy test (Guardant360; Guardant Health, Inc., Redwood City, CA, USA) were analyzed for prevalence of a putative germline mutation identified among 16 actionable hereditary cancer predisposition genes. The Guardant360 test detects single nucleotide variants, small and large indels (fusions of deletion and insert), copy number amplifications, and fusion events. cfDNA was extracted from the plasma, quantified, and then sequenced up to 15,000 times to average read depth. A germline mutation rate of 3.4% was found for PCa, demonstrating that it is also possible to perform this test for cfDNA of various cancer subtypes such as OCa and BCa [54].

3.7 Additional Tested Genes

A few studies met our inclusion criteria but did not provide sufficient evidence for a clear correlation between a specific gene mutation and an increased risk of PCa. However, since several of these genes are still interesting and under further examination, we discuss seven of these studies.

PALB2 is a gene that encodes a protein involved in the binding and co-localization of BRCA2 in nuclear foci. PVs in PALB2 are associated with a greater risk of developing BCa and are included in BCa screening panels. However, Yang et al. [55] conducted a multicenter study including 523 families and did not reveal any correlation with an increased risk for PCa. Given that mutations in downstream Fanconi anemia pathway genes, such as BRCA2 and PALB2, are strongly correlated with an increased risk of BCa, Mantere et al. [56] investigated the involvement of FANCA/FANCG/FANCI gene mutations in the development of PCa in a Finnish population but found no significant association with cancer susceptibility from a clinical point of view.

Serum paraoxonase and arylesterase 1 (PON1), also known as A-esterase, is an enzyme encoded by the PON1 gene, which is involved in the process of preventing damage caused by systemic oxidative stress [57]. Given increasing evidence of its involvement in the development of various cancers, Heise et al. [58] conducted a study focused on PCa but did not find any specific genotype correlated with an increased risk of PCa. However, PON1 remains a gene of interest, and further trials are needed to elucidate a potential connection with PCa.

Nibrin (NBS1) encodes an eponymous protein involved in the repair of double-strand breaks and is suggested to be a risk factor for the development of PCa. Ābele et al. [59] performed a prospective trial to evaluate the epidemiological features of hereditary PCa. An analysis for founder gene mutation in NBS1 was performed in 280 patients with PCa and in 173 healthy controls. The authors found only one NBS1 mutation in both groups so could not show any predisposition for the development of PCa based on an NBS1 mutation [59].

The protein phosphatase 1D (PPM1D) gene encodes a homonymous enzyme involved in cellular stress response pathways. There is evidence that mutations in PPM1D are associated with BCa, OCa, CRC, and non-small-cell lung cancer [60]. Cardoso et al. [61] studied patients with early-onset or hereditary PCa to investigate the prevalence of these mutations in the DNA extracted from white blood cells. Among 462 patients, two (0.4%) truncating mutations in PPM1D were found in two males, both subjects carrying the alterations. Additionally, non-synonymous germline mutations were found in nine subjects (1.95%) with PCa but in none of the healthy controls. Further studies are needed to investigate this background and to analyze whether a mutation can be correlated with an increased risk of the development of PCa [61].

4 Current Guideline Recommendations for Genetic Testing

As genetic testing starts to play a vital role in the diagnosis of PCa, especially in young men with aggressive forms of the disease, different guidelines are providing recommendations.

European Association of Urology (EAU) guidelines on PCa screening recommend early PSA screening in all men aged > 45 years with a FH of PCa, men of African descent aged > 45 years, and BRCA2 mutation carriers aged > 40 years [17]. The EAU defines FH as three or more affected relatives or two or more relatives with early-onset PCa diagnosed at < 55 years of age [17]. Genetic sequencing of the primary tumor, liquid biopsies, or human metastatic derived-tissue should be considered early or as soon as the disease is castration resistant. As yet, the guidelines do not recommend the use of any specific panel for the management of PCa [17].

The European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) guidelines resemble those of the EAU in terms of early PSA screening but give a more precise recommendation on genetic testing in metastatic PCa [62].

In contrast, National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines have already expanded their recommendation for genetic testing to all patients with a FH of PCa, high-risk and very high-risk tumors, metastatic setting regardless of FH, Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, and patients with an intraductal cancer [63]. Given the increased risk for the development of PCa in germline mutation carriers and potentially differing treatment strategies targeting these diseases, the NCCN guidelines recommend germline testing in men with advanced PCa [63]. Table 2 summarizes the current guideline recommendations from the EAU, ESMO, NCCN, and American Urological Association (AUA) [17, 20, 62,63,64,65,66,67].

Table 2 Current guideline recommendations on genetic testing in prostate cancer (PCa)
Full size table

Given the recent data supporting genetic workups, the statements from the 2017 and 2019 Philadelphia Prostate Cancer Consensus Conferences on genetic testing are also relevant [68, 69]. BRCA1/2, MMR, and ATM were defined as priority genes. BRCA2 was also recommended for active surveillance management, with early-onset screening (40 years) in BRCA2 mutation carriers, and other genes such as HOXB13, ATM, BRCA1, and MMR have also been selected for further evaluation. Genetic testing in all patients with metastatic PCa was also strongly recommended [68, 69].

5 Discussion

As demonstrated by the variety of studies focusing on different genetic mutations associated with PCa, this is a fast-growing field of interest. Although the genetic aspects of PCa may have previously been underestimated, we now have evidence for the impact of genetics in the development of PCa. This is also emphasized by current recommendations for genetic testing in various society guidelines. Although the EAU only gives vague recommendations for early PSA screening in BRCA2 mutation carriers, the NCCN guidelines include patients with high/very high-risk localized disease, those with metastatic disease, patients with Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry, and those with intraductal histology [17, 63, 65]. The ESMO guidelines recommend germline testing in men with advanced PCa (BRCA2, DDR), regardless of FH and tumor profile, as well as in patients with localized disease and FH of hereditary cancers such as BCa [62]. Similarly, the AUA recommends genetic testing in all patients with metastatic disease and those with localized disease with a concomitant positive FH for hereditary cancers [66].

The trials reviewed in this manuscript indicate a clear increased risk of PCa among patients with a FH of PCa and other HCS such as BCa, OCa, LS, or CRC. Furthermore, a correlation with specific gene mutations was increased for BRCA1/2 and MMR genes, CHEK2, PALB2, HOXB13, and various SNPs.

One limitation of our work is the number of studies with small cohorts and different protocols, which precluded an objective and direct comparison of the studies. Therefore, our descriptive results must be evaluated with caution. Although no clear recommendation is provided for a specific PCa multigene panel, we consider that MGPT platforms, such as ProstateNext, provide the most reliable value for future personalized PCa screening.

Significant evidence indicates that screening programs based on PSA only are not optimal for identifying patients with clinically significant PCa, and result in overtreatment and overdiagnosis. Despite the development of new techniques and the worldwide availability of genetic testing, they remain prohibited in certain countries and centers because of the high associated costs. Therefore, risk calculation systems that encompass a detailed evaluation of FH in combination with basic diagnostic parameters such as PSA, PSA density, and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging findings would be ideal. Genetic testing might be included for a more targeted approach in patients who display high-risk features. Additional information provided by MGPT with specific stratification of various risk profiles might be possible and would allow an adapted screening strategy.

Early diagnosis would lead to a higher percentage of patients with curable disease and diminish the risk of overtreatment, therapy-related side effects, and the need for systemic treatments, thereby decreasing overall healthcare costs. Generally, the implementation of genetic testing creates new tasks in the clinical management of patients with PCa. On one hand, genetic testing involves difficult ethical questions with consequences for both the patient and his family. On the other hand, the healthcare system faces increasing costs when integrating broad testing in routine clinical practice. As this is an important topic, and each country handles it differently, satisfactory coverage is beyond the scope of this review. As such, we refer readers to a recent review by Giri et al. [68].

6 Conclusion

Recent studies have demonstrated a broader genetic landscape in patients with PCa. Mutations in BRCA1/2, MMR, CHEK2, PALB2, and HOXB13 genes, as well as various SNPs, are associated with an increased risk of developing PCa. The implementation of genetic testing in clinical practice, especially in young patients with aggressive tumors or those with positive FH, represents a new challenge for coming years. Genetic testing enables better risk stratification of patients with PCa who may receive targeted therapies, such as PARP inhibitors for BRCA1/2 mutations, facilitating a more personalized approach.