TMPRSS 2-ERG Fusion Gene Expression in Prostate Tumor Cells and Its Clinical and Biological Significance in Prostate Cancer Progression

Prostate cancer (PC) is the most common form of cancer found in American men and the second leading cause of cancer death. The American Cancer Society [1] estimates that in 2012 there were 241,740 newly diagnosed cases of PC, with an estimated 28,170 men dying as a result of the disease. This means that approximately 28.5% of cancers and 3.5% of cancer related deaths in men are due to PC. Because of research that has generated improved treatments and earlier diagnosis, the five-year survival rate has significantly increased in PC patients [1]. However, the key molecular mechanisms responsible for the initiation and progression of PC remain largely unknown.

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