Abstract
Aim: To develop a methylation marker of Y-chromosome gene in the early diagnosis of prostate cancer (PCa).Materials & methods: We utilized bioinformatics analysis to identify the expression and promoter methylation of Y-chromosome gene PRKY in PCa and other common malignancies. Single-center experiments were conducted to validate the diagnostic value of PRKY promoter methylation in PCa.Results: PRKY expression was significantly down-regulated in PCa and its mechanism may be related to promoter methylation. PRKY promoter methylation is highly specific for the diagnosis of early PCa, which may be superior to prostate-specific antigen, mpMRI and other excellent molecular biomarkers.Conclusion: PRKY promoter methylation may be a potential marker for the early and accurate diagnosis of PCa.