Current and future biomarkers in the treatment of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. CRC develops as a consequence of genomic instability, characterized by various genetic and epigenetic alterations. Its molecular heterogeneity explains the large variability in patient prognosis and treatment response, emphasizing the need for development of accurate prognostic and predictive biomarkers. This article delineates the different pathways of colorectal carcinogenesis and its molecular subtype classification. With this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current and future biomarkers guiding clinical decision-making and CRC treatment.

Keywords:

• Colorectal cancer
• Predictive markers
• Prognostic markers
• Molecular subtypes
• RAS
• BRAF
• MSI
• DNA mismatch repair
• HER2
• EGFR
• VEGF
• CDX2
• Targeted therapy
• Personalized medicine
• Liquid biopsy