Plasma Analysis for Response Assessment and to DIrect the manaGement of Metastatic Prostate Cancer

This research study is looking into plasma tumour deoxyribonucleic acid (ptDNA), a substance that is shed by cancer cells and can be detected in blood samples. Analysing ptDNA may therefore be able to provide more information about the characteristics of prostate cancer. This study will involve taking additional blood samples during standard treatment. The samples will be analysed in laboratories for levels of Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA); which gives information on the activity of the cancer; ptDNA; circulating tumour cells (ones that are derived from the cancer) (CTCs) and cells that affect immune system. The PARADIGM study is not, therefore, testing a new drug. Instead, the study is investigating if a new blood test can provide information about which current treatments for prostate cancer will work best for future patients with this disease. In the future and PARADIGM's ultimate aim is to identify which of the current treatment options will work best for patients. The research may also identify new opportunities for the development of drugs potentially useful in treating prostate cancer.