CRC Research Update

  • SCREENING

    Multitarget stool DNA test shows promise over standard FIT screening

    A systematic review found that multitarget stool DNA (mt-sDNA) testing emerged as a promising alternative to faecal immunochemical test (FIT) for detecting colorectal neoplasms, particularly given FIT's low sensitivity for advanced adenomas. (Cancer Epidemiology)

  • TREATMENT

    Trifluridine/tipiracil outcomes examined in patients 75 and older

    A single-center retrospective study compared relative dose intensity, toxicity, and survival between trifluridine/tipiracil (FTD/TPI) monotherapy and FTD/TPI plus bevacizumab in older patients with metastatic colorectal cancer, examining the relationship between dose intensity and overall survival. (Journal of Gastrointestinal Cancer)

  • RESEARCH

    New gene circuit platform targets multiple KRAS mutations in preclinical models

    Researchers developed a platform that enables in vivo self-assembly of small extracellular vesicles encapsulating KRAS-specific siRNAs for broad targeting of KRAS mutants, showing activity in orthotopic models of KRAS G12D-, G12V-, and G13D-driven colorectal cancer. (Journal of Controlled Release)

  • TRIAL DATA

    Adjuvant chemotherapy benefits occur early, not in late recurrences

    A systematic review of phase III randomized controlled trials for gastrointestinal malignancies including colorectal cancer found that recurrence-free survival improvements were driven by early divergences during active chemotherapy, while late recurrences were not influenced by adjuvant therapy. (Journal of Surgical Research)

🔬 Under 50 Spotlight

Research relevant to early-onset and younger CRC patients

  • Significant discrepancies found in early-onset CRC among neglected populations

    A comprehensive review evaluating genetic and molecular research on hereditary and early-onset CRC in ethnic minority, indigenous, and understudied populations found significant discrepancies in early-onset CRC presentations compared with well-studied groups, despite largely consistent Lynch syndrome molecular features. (Journal of Racial and Ethnic Health Disparities)

  • Mexico sees marked increase in CRC among adults under 50

    A narrative review of epidemiological studies demonstrates a marked increase in CRC incidence and mortality in Mexico over the last two decades, with a disproportionate impact on adults under 50 years of age. (Cureus)

🧬 Biomarker Spotlight

Research by genetic subtype — KRAS, BRAF, MSI-H, HER2, and more

Research continues to advance our understanding of screening, treatment, and the molecular landscape of colorectal cancer across diverse populations and age groups.