Mitochondria-related gene expression changes are associated with fatigue in patients with non-metastatic prostate cancer receiving external beam radiation therapy

Wednesday, October 26, 2011 — Poster Session III
10:00 a.m. – Noon	Natcher Conference Center	NINR	CLIN/CULT/AGING/DISPREV-10

Authors

• CP Hsiao
• D Wang
• A Kaushal
• L Saligan

Abstract

Purpose: To describe relationships between mitochondria-related gene expression changes and fatigue in prostate cancer patients receiving external beam radiation therapy (EBRT). Methods: This pilot project utilized prospective, exploratory, and repeated measures design. Self-report questionnaires and peripheral whole blood samples were collected at 7 time points. The Human Mitochondria RT2 Profiler™ PCR Array was utilized to identify differential regulation of genes involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and function. Results: There were significant changes in fatigue scores (p=.02-.04) and mitochondria-related gene expression (p=.00 -.05) over time compared to baseline. Mean fatigue score was 1.66 (SD= 1.66) at baseline, 3.06 (SD=1.95) at midpoint of EBRT, 2.98 (SD=2.20) at the end of EBRT, and 2.64 (SD=2.56) at 4 weeks post EBRT. Eleven genes related to mitochondrial function and structure were differentially expressed over time during EBRT. Three of the 11 genes (BCL2L1, FIS1, SLC25A37) were more than 2.5 fold up-regulated, while 8/11 genes were greater than 2-fold-down-regulated (AIFM2, BCL2, IMMP2L, MIPEP, MSTO1, NEFL, SLC25A23, SLC25A4). Eight of 11 genes were significantly associated with fatigue scores (p<.00-.04). Conclusion: This study provides evidence that 11 mitochondrial-related genes were significantly expressed during EBRT. These findings identify possible pathways and early biomarkers for novel targeting intervention for CRF.

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