Plasma sarcosine measured by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry distinguishes prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia and prostate cancer from benign prostate hyperplasia

Abstract

Objective: Sarcosine was postulated in 2009 as a biomarker for prostate cancer (PCa). Here, we assess plasma sarcosine as a biomarker that is complementary to prostate-specific antigen (PSA). Methods: Plasma sarcosine was measured using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) in adults classified as noncancerous controls (with benign prostate hyperplasia [BPH], n = 36), with prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PIN, n = 16), or with PCa (n = 27). Diagnostic accuracy was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Results: Plasma sarcosine levels were higher in the PCa (2.0 µM [1.3-3.3 µM], P