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In this Worldview, I share a few observations that I have learnt during my career as a biomedical scientist: explore a bit before settling on a place to experimentally dig for your discoveries; recognize that nature is exceedingly complex and that dogma is meant to be broken; allow yourself to take risks and fail; and realize that science is best done with the long view in mind.
Rare genitourinary cancers have historically been challenging to treat given the scarcity in incidence, inadequacy of data on treatment and lack of general consensus to guide routine therapy. A phase II multicentre trial shows efficacy of nivolumab and ipilimumab in several cohorts of patients with rare genitourinary cancers.
Adiposity and skeletal muscle mass have been shown to be prognostic for mortality in several cancers. In a recent study, CT imaging at diagnosis was used to determine whether components of body composition were associated with survival in men with advanced prostate cancer.
The value of proton therapy in managing prostate cancer is not yet defined. A recent study has reported promising long-term results for patients with localized prostate cancer who received proton therapy. However, results from ongoing clinical trials are required before determining the role of proton therapy for this indication.
Transient receptor potential (TRP) channels have an important role in sensory mechanisms of the lower urinary tract. Vanneste et al. discuss the involvement of TRP channels in normal and abnormal bladder sensations and their potential as therapeutic targets.
Surgical ergonomics in urology has been understudied and underemphasized. This Review characterizes the burden of musculoskeletal injury in urologists and focuses on various ergonomic considerations relevant to the urology surgeon.
Prostate cancer lends itself to gene therapies, and multiple aspects of prostate cancer care make gene therapy an appealing treatment option for this common malignancy. Although laboratory and preclinical advances have not yet resulted in oncologically relevant outcomes in the clinic, future studies offer great promise for gene therapy to become established in prostate cancer treatment.
