DO Student's Research Targets Genetic Pathways in Prostate Cancer Recurrence
August 20, 2026
The American Cancer Society notes prostate cancer as one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in men in the United States and the second most common cancer worldwide. While prostate cancer is often treatable when detected early, a pressing question remains: what happens when the cancer returns after prostate removal, and is there a way to predict its recurrence?
This is a question that Adam Eugene Davis (DO '28), a third-year Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) student at PCOM Georgia, has been looking to answer. His latest research focuses on identifying biological processes associated with recurrence following a radical prostatectomy (RP), the surgery to remove the entire prostate gland and nearby tissues. This includes looking at groups of genes and genetic markers linked to cancer recurrence after surgery to better understand why the disease may persist.
Prostate cancer recurrence and progression after RP remains a major clinical challenge in urology, occurring in approximately 30-50% of men within 10 years of treatment. “Studying these pathways and how they function within the cancer itself could allow for more comprehensive prognoses for patients and more tailored treatment strategies,” he said.
Davis's research investigates various biological mechanisms including DNA transcription, epigenetic regulation, immune signaling and protein folding, to identify factors that may predict when cancer could recur. He also examined risk markers through genetic testing of tissue samples and analyzed cellular pathways associated with either an increased or decreased likelihood of recurrence.
Mentored by experienced professionals and supported by his classmates, Davis discovered his passion for urology early in medical school. As a first-year medical student, he researched ureteral stents and their complications, shadowed a urologist, and quickly realized that urology involves both clinical and surgical aspects, something he found appealing as he likes working with his hands.
“Urology is a fascinating field and I found the mentors to be incredibly supportive… Plus, urologists are often known for their sense of humor, which makes the experience even better,” he said.
Currently completing clinical rotations at Northeast Georgia Medical Center in Gainesville, Davis's early commitment to urologic research reflects both the urgency of advancing prostate cancer care and the promise of the next generation of physician-scientists.
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PCOM Georgia has been serving students and the community for 20 years as a branch campus of Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM), a private, not-for-profit, accredited institution of higher education established in 1899. Located in Suwanee (Gwinnett County), PCOM Georgia offers doctoral degrees in osteopathic medicine, pharmacy and physical therapy. Graduate degrees are offered in biomedical sciences, medical laboratory science and physician assistant studies. The campus joins PCOM South Georgia in Moultrie in helping to meet the healthcare needs of the state. Emphasizing "a whole person" approach to care, PCOM Georgia focuses on educational excellence, interprofessional education and service to the community. For more information, visit pcom.edu or call 678-225-7500. The campus is also home to the Georgia Osteopathic Care Center, an osteopathic manipulative medicine clinic, which is open to the public by appointment. For more information, visit pcomgeorgiahealth.org.
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