APACA-Apheresis/acoustophoresis and Molecular Characterization of Prostate Cancer

In this prospective clinical study, led by Umeå University, all research subjects will undergo apheresis and subjects with cancer will also undergo multiple radiological examinations to both identify apheresis and subsequent experimental protocols for isolation of tumor cells, immune cells and other components from the blood. The goal is to increase the sensitivity of identifying circulating tumor cells in early-stage metastatic prostate cancer for molecular characterization without biopsies of metastases. By doing this on multiple occasions in primary metastatic prostate cancer, investigators will identify early resistance mechanisms to given treatment and also investigate immune changes to standard treatment of metastatic prostate cancer (castration). Through qualitative approach, investigators will identify healthy and risk factors for managing the diagnosis of metastatic prostate cancer and the experience of undergoing apheresis to identify circulating tumor cells (CTC) in the blood, with the aim of identifying possible risks for mental health with this research.