The CRC Digest

Curated CRC research — accessible, accurate, actionable

Saturday, March 28, 2026

2 min read

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IMPORTANT: The CRC Digest curates and summarizes publicly available research for informational and educational purposes only. Nothing in this newsletter constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment recommendation. The information provided should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the guidance of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition or treatment. Content is generated with AI assistance and reviewed by the editorial team. We are not medical professionals. Individual results, treatments, and outcomes vary.

CRC Research Update

• ◇ Repeat molecular testing recommended for metastatic CRC as tumors evolve

  NCCN and ASCO now recommend reassessing RAS, BRAF, HER2, and MSI/MMR status in metastatic colorectal cancer, as molecular profiles can change over time and impact treatment options. (Cancers)

• ◆ Real-world study compares trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab to other late-line options

  Multicenter cohort study examined outcomes of trifluridine/tipiracil plus bevacizumab versus trifluridine/tipiracil alone or regorafenib in pretreated metastatic colorectal cancer, with analysis of KRAS G12 mutation impact on efficacy. (ESMO Open)

• ◇ Quiescent persister tumor cells identified as key driver of chemotherapy failure

  Study found that quiescent persister tumor cells survive neoadjuvant chemotherapy in colorectal cancer and correlate with poor long-term outcomes, even in patients who initially respond to treatment. (Developmental Cell)

• ▪ AI-enabled stool screening framework proposed to improve detection of precancerous lesions

  Consensus framework outlines multi-omic, AI-enabled approach to stool-based screening aimed at better detecting advanced precancerous lesions, including advanced adenomas and sessile serrated lesions that current methods often miss. (Cancers)

• ◇ Enzyme 3-MST found highly upregulated in colorectal cancer stem cells

  Preprint study shows 3-mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase is markedly elevated in therapy-resistant colorectal cancer stem cells and serves as a critical metabolic support mechanism for this cell population. (bioRxiv — preprint, not peer-reviewed)

Today's research highlights the evolving understanding of tumor biology and the importance of repeat testing as cancers change over time. Stay informed and discuss any questions with your care team.