Dr. Gomella on Potential Impact of Targeted Therapy Approvals on Genetic Testing in Prostate Cancer

Leonard G. Gomella, MD, professor, chair of the Department of Urology, and director of the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center Network, of Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, discusses the potential impact of targeted therapy approvals on the use of genetic testing in prostate cancer.

Several PARP inhibitors are under investigation in patients with homologous recombination repair (HRR)—deficient prostate cancer, but none of these agents have been approved to date, explains Gomella. However, in January 2020, the FDA granted a priority review designation to a supplemental new drug application (sNDA) for rucaparib (Rubraca) for the treatment of adult patients with BRCA1/2-mutant recurrent, metastatic castration-resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC). Moreover, in January 2020, the FDA granted a priority review designation to a sNDA for olaparib (Lynparza) for the treatment of patients with mCRPC who have deleterious or somatic HRR gene mutations, and who have also progressed on prior therapy with a new hormonal agent.

The PARP inhibitors that are currently under priority review will undoubtedly increase interest in genetic testing among providers who treat men with all stages of prostate cancer, concludes Gomella.