The Effect of ADT on PSMA Expression in Metastatic Prostate Cancer

In metastatic prostate cancer androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) has been traditionally used as a first line approach. Based on histological studies, animal models and PSMA-PET imaging, it is known that administration of ADT increases prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) expression. Preliminary results of our previous prospective clinical trial (clinicaltrials.gov identifier: NCT03313726) with nine men demonstrated a heterogenous flare in PSMA expression 2-3 weeks after ADT, more evidently in bone metastases. Our hypothesis is that metastatic lesions having PSMA-flare respond differently to ADT and have different outcome than those without PSMA-flare. Therefore, the objective of the study is to demonstrate the PSMA-flare seen in bone lesions 3 weeks after ADT and then determine the potential predictive value of the phenomenon in the progression to castration resistant prostate cancer (CRPC). Thirty-five men with newly diagnosed, metastatic PC will undergo 18F-PSMA 1007 PET/CT before and 3 weeks after the initiation of sub-cutaneous injection of GnRH-antagonist (Degarelix, Firmagon®). A subgroup of 20 patients will receive an additional FDG PET/CT scan before ADT to investigate whether lesions with PSMA flare show a different metabolic behaviour on FDG PET. During the follow-up, 18F-PSMA 1007 PET/CT will be also performed once a year. Finally all patients will repeat 18F-PSMA 1007 PET/CT at the time of CRPC. In addition to imaging, PSA is measured, and blood drawn for androgen levels and biomarkers in three months interval.