Predictive biomarkers for colorectal cancer: a state-of-the-art systematic review

Abstract

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) poses a substantial health burden, with early detection paramount for improved prognosis. This study aims to evaluate potential CRC biomarkers and detection techniques.

Materials and Methods

This systematic review, reported in adherence to PRISMA Statement 2020 guidelines, collates the latest research on potential biomarkers and detection/prognosis methods for CRC, spanning the last decade.

Results

Out of the 38 included studies, diverse biomarkers and detection methods emerged, with DNA methylation markers like SFRP2 and SDC2, microRNAs including miR-1290, miR-506, and miR-4316, and serum and plasma markers such as NTS levels and U2 snRNA fragments standing out. Methylated cfDNA and m5C methylation alteration in immune cells of the blood, along with circular RNA, showed promise as diagnostic markers. Meanwhile, techniques involving extracellular vesicles and lateral flow immunoassays exhibited potential for swift and effective CRC screening.

Discussion

Our state-of-the-art review identifies potential biomarkers, including SFRP2, SDC2, miR-1290, miR-506, miR-4316, and U2 snRNA fragments, with significant potential in enhancing CRC detection. However, comprehensive validation studies and a rigorous evaluation of clinical utility and cost-effectiveness remain necessary before integration into routine clinical practice.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the need for continued research into biomarkers and detection methods to improve patient outcomes.

Graphical Abstract

This state-of-the-art systematic review evaluated potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer (CRC) and synthesized 38 studies. Several biomarkers showed promise for CRC detection, including SFRP2 and SDC2 methylation biomarkers, chiroptical spectroscopy, m6A RNA levels, miR-1290, miR-506, miR-4316, NTS levels, and U2 snRNA fragments. EVs and LFIA were useful for screening.

Keywords:

• Colorectal cancer
• biomarkers
• detection methods
• diagnosis
• prognosis
• systematic review

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge Bilal Yaseen, MBBS (Rawal Institute of Health Sciences), Zohaib Iftikhar, MBBS (Avicenna Medical College), and Zain Safdar, MBBS (Sargodha Medical College) for their early insights to the manuscript.

Disclosure statement

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Data availability statement

All data used in this study is presented within the manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.