Which genes are commonly tested on a prostate cancer panel?

The selection of HOXB13, BRCA1, and BRCA2 as commonly tested genes on a prostate cancer panel is based on their established significance in hereditary prostate cancer and the molecular pathology associated with the disease.

HOXB13 is specifically linked to prostate cancer predisposition, particularly in familial cases. Mutations in this gene have been found to significantly increase the risk of developing prostate cancer.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are well-known genes that, while primarily associated with breast and ovarian cancer, have also been implicated in prostate cancer risk. Men who carry mutations in these genes have a higher likelihood of developing prostate cancer, particularly aggressive forms of the disease. Testing for these mutations can provide important information for cancer risk management in affected families.

This combination of genes on the panel is aimed at identifying individuals who may be at increased risk due to hereditary factors, thereby guiding screening, prevention strategies, and treatment options based on genetic predisposition. The other gene sets listed do not have the same direct relevance or established guidelines for testing in the context of hereditary prostate cancer.