MiR-155 Expression by Real-Time PCR as a New Tool to Diagnose Prostate Cancer as an Alternative to the Traditional ELISA Assay

Hiba Adil Kadhim, Basma Talib Al-Sudani and Hadeel Saeed Hadi

Abstract

Prostate cancer is a common malignancy in men, and early detection is essential for effective treatment. While PSA is the most used biomarker, its limitations call for better diagnostic tools. This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic potential of miR-155 expression using real-time PCR as an alternative to traditional ELISA-based markers such as PSA, TPS, and CEA. Blood samples were collected from 80 prostate cancer patients and 80 healthy controls at Al-Andalus Specialist Hospital. Serum miR-155 and blood PSA mRNA levels were measured using real-time PCR. Additionally, ELISA assays were used to assess PSA, TPS, and CEA levels. The expression of miR-155 and PSA mRNA was significantly higher in patients than in controls (3.8-fold and 1.7-fold, respectively; p < 0.0001). MiR-155 showed an AUC of 97% for sensitivity and specificity, outperforming PSA mRNA (AUC 89%). ELISA results also indicated elevated levels of PSA, TPS, and CEA in patients, but miR-155 was the most reliable biomarker. MiR-155 demonstrated superior diagnostic performance compared to traditional markers due to its high sensitivity, specificity, and cost-effectiveness, suggesting its potential as a powerful and practical tool for prostate cancer detection.