Gene fusion in prostate cancer

The discovery of TMPRSS2-ETS gene fusions in prostate cancerdramatically changed our view of solid tumors. Unveiling the molecularprinciples of the fusion illustrates the potential for clinicalapplications with regard to prognosis, diagnosis and therapy. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge about TMPRSS2-ETSgene fusions and delineate how genetic analysis of fusion positive prostatecancer cases can be used as a prognositc marker in clinical routine.The characteristic morphological features of the gene fusion andits detection in prostate biopsies and in urine make it a promissingtarget to identify aggressive tumors. By increasing our knowledgeabout fusion positive prostate cancer, we will improve the possibilityto offer target specific and individualized therapeutic approaches.