title: TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion in prostate cancer.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion is one of the most widely spread chromosomal rearrangements in carcinomas. Since its discovery, a number of studies have examined its diagnostic, prognostic and therapeutic implications for prostate cancer where suitable biomarkers are still lacking. The publication data are inconsistent. The aim of this review was to critically evaluate the current clinical impact of this gene fusion.
  
  
  METHODS
  The PubMed online database was used to search relevant reviews and original articles.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Although the TMPRSS2-ERG gene fusion appears to be a suitable diagnostic biomarker, the prognostic implications of this gene fusion are still unclear. Several new strategies for therapeutically targeting ETS fusions and their modulators have been identified and are currently being investigated.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Due to the heterogeneity of prostate cancer, the combination of several biomarkers is necessary to accurately assess the presence of prostate cancer, predict its potential clinical outcome and decide on appropriate therapy (e.g. PARP inhibitors).
authors.affiliation: Department of Clinical and Molecular Pathology, Institute of Molecular and Translational Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Palacky University Olomouc, Czech Republic.
authors.forename: Alena
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Burdova
authors.forename: Jan
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bouchal
authors.forename: Spiros
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Tavandzis
authors.forename: Zdenek
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Kolar
mesh_terms: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D050939:Gene Fusion / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D015514:Oncogene Proteins, Fusion / Q000235:genetics*; D011379:Prognosis; D011471:Prostatic Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000235:genetics*
chemical_list: D014408:Biomarkers, Tumor; D015514:Oncogene Proteins, Fusion; C515553:TMPRSS2-ERG fusion protein, human