Investigation of the association of tRNA-derived fragments (tRF-17-79MP9PP and tRF-18- 79MP9P04) with prostate cancer

Abstract Introduction: This study explores the relationship between the expression levels of two tRNA-derived fragments, tRF-17-79MP9PP and tRF-18-79MP9P04, and the pathophysiology of prostate cancer (PCa). Material and methods A total of 40 patients were included: 8 with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and 32 with varying PCa grades. Total RNA was extracted from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues, and tRF-17-79MP9PP and tRF-18-79MP9P04 expression levels were measured. Results Results showed that tRF-17-79MP9PP expression increased with cancer grade (p < 0.001), with advanced PCa having the highest levels. Interestingly, BPH also had higher tRF-17-79MP9PP expression than lower and mild PCa grades. tRF-18-79MP9P04 expression was similar between BPH and lower grades, but significantly higher in mild, higher, and advanced PCa grades (p < 0.001). Additionally, a significant correlation was found between PSA levels and both tRF-17-79MP9PP and tRF-18-79MP9P04 in PCa patients (p < 0.001), except in BPH group. Discussion tRF-17-79MP9PP and tRF-18-79MP9P04 play crucial roles in prostate cancer, showing potential oncogenic behavior in advanced stages, contrary to previous findings suggesting tumor-suppressive roles. Conclusion These findings suggest that higher expression levels of these tRNA-derived fragments could serve as potential biomarkers for differentiating PCa grades.