Epigenetic biomarkers in colorectal cancer: premises and prospects

Biomarkers. 2018 Mar;23(2):105-114. doi: 10.1080/1354750X.2016.1252961. Epub 2016 Nov 10.

Abstract

Context: Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. Epigenetic alterations play an important role in the pathogenesis of the colorectal cancer.

Objective: This review has focused on the most recent investigations, which has suggested potential epigenetic biomarkers in colorectal cancer.

Methods: Evidences were achieved by searching online medical databases including Google scholar, Pubmed, Scopus and Science Direct.

Results: Extensive studies have indicated that aberrant epigenetic modifications could serve as potential biomarkers for diagnosis, prognosis and prediction of colorectal cancer.

Conclusion: Advances in aberrant epigenetic modifications can open new avenues for exploration of reliable and robust biomarkers to improve the management of CRC patients.

Keywords: Colorectal cancer; DNA methylation; biomarker; epigenetics; histone modifications; miRNA.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biomarkers, Tumor / genetics*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / genetics*
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / metabolism
  • DNA Methylation
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic*
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • MicroRNAs / genetics
  • Prognosis

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Histones
  • MicroRNAs