A new study from the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center has clinically validated a urine-based test that could help men avoid invasive prostate cancer screening procedures. The MyProstateScore 2.0 (MPS2) test has shown promise in identifying aggressive cancers without requiring blood tests, MRIs, or biopsies in cases where they may not be necessary.
A Less Invasive Approach to Prostate Cancer Screening
Traditional prostate cancer screening methods, such as blood tests, MRIs, and biopsies, can be uncomfortable and may lead to overdiagnosis of low-grade, non-aggressive cancers. Prostate cancers are categorized using the Gleason Grade or Grade Group system, with Grade Group 2 (GG2) or higher being more likely to grow and cause harm. In contrast, Grade Group 1 (Gleason 6) cancers are often considered non-aggressive and may not require treatment.
The MPS2 test analyzes 18 different genes linked to high-grade prostate cancer. Previous research demonstrated its effectiveness in detecting GG2 or higher cancers, but the test initially required urine samples to be collected after a digital rectal exam.
Developing an At-Home Urine Test
To make the screening process easier and more comfortable, researchers modified the urine collection method to perform the test without a prior rectal exam. In a study involving 266 men who did not undergo a rectal exam, MPS2 detected 94% of GG2 or higher cancers, outperforming traditional blood tests in sensitivity.
Mathematical models further suggested that MPS2 could have prevented up to 53% of unnecessary biopsies, reducing patient discomfort and healthcare costs.
A Promising Future for Prostate Cancer Detection
Lead researcher Dr. Ganesh S. Palapattu, a professor of urology, highlighted the potential impact of MPS2, saying,
“The test can accurately predict your probability of developing aggressive prostate cancer, putting both the patient and physician at ease.”
MPS2 also offers a cost-effective alternative to MRIs, making prostate cancer screening more accessible. Researchers aim to test MPS2 on a more extensive and diverse population to confirm its effectiveness. Additionally, they plan to explore its potential as a surveillance tool for low-risk prostate cancer patients.
Currently, MPS2 is available through Lynx Dx, a University of Michigan spin-off company with exclusive rights to commercialize the test. Patients interested in learning more can contact the Michigan Medicine Cancer AnswerLine at 800-865-1125.
Reference: Jeffrey J Tosoian, Yuping Zhang, Jacob I Meyers, Spencer Heaton, Javed Siddiqui, Lanbo Xiao, Keavash D Assani, Daniel A Barocas, Ashley E Ross, Zoey Chopra, Grace C Herron, Jacob A Edelson, Nathan J Graham, Udit Singhal, Simpa S Salami, Todd M Morgan, Ganesh S Palapattu, John T Wei, Arul M Chinnaiyan. Clinical validation of MyProstateScore 2.0 testing using first-catch, non-DRE urine. J Urol, 2025.
