Abstract C045: Evaluating AMACR and 34βE1 as diagnostic biomarkers in prostate tumors: Insights into health disparities and public health challenges in vulnerable populations

Background: Prostate cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among men, with significant disparities in incidence and outcomes influenced by environmental exposures and socioeconomic factors. This study investigates the expression of Alpha-Methylacyl-CoA Racemase (AMACR) and High Molecular Weight Cytokeratin (34βE12) in a cadmium and testosterone-induced prostate cancer model using Wistar rats, aiming to enhance diagnostic accuracy and address health disparities in vulnerable populations. Research Objectives: The primary objective is to compare the immunohistochemical expression of AMACR and 34βE12 in prostate tissues from rats exposed to cadmium alone versus those exposed to a combination of cadmium and testosterone. This comparison seeks to elucidate the potential of these biomarkers in distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions, particularly in populations disproportionately affected by environmental carcinogens and socioeconomic vulnerabilities. Methodology: Fifteen male Wistar rats were divided into three groups: a control group, a group administered 2 mg/kg cadmium chloride, and a group receiving 1 mg/kg cadmium chloride with 5 mg/kg testosterone propionate dissolved in olive oil. After a 28-day induction period, prostate tissues were harvested and analyzed using immunohistochemical techniques. Results: The findings revealed strong AMACR expression in malignant tissues, while 34βE12 showed minimal or absent expression, confirming the loss of basal cells characteristic of prostate carcinoma. Notably, cadmium exposure alone did not induce tumor formation; however, the combination with testosterone significantly enhanced tumor development, underscoring the hormone's role in cadmium's carcinogenic potential. Conclusion: This study highlights the diagnostic utility of AMACR and 34βE12 in differentiating between benign and malignant prostatic lesions, emphasizing the need for targeted interventions to mitigate cadmium exposure and regulate testosterone therapy. By addressing these environmental and hormonal factors, we can contribute to reducing health disparities in prostate cancer outcomes, particularly in vulnerable populations. These findings underscore the importance of integrating biomarker analysis into public health strategies aimed at improving cancer diagnosis and treatment in underserved communities. Citation Format: Enoch Chibuike. Okorochi, Chinenye Mary. Okorochi, Angel Sewuese. Torkuma, Nnaemeka Jireh. Okolie, Gerald Ikechi. Eze. Evaluating AMACR and 34βE1 as diagnostic biomarkers in prostate tumors: Insights into health disparities and public health challenges in vulnerable populations [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 18th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities; 2025 Sep 18-21; Baltimore, MD. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2025;34(9 Suppl):Abstract nr C045.