Biomarkers of inflammation and colorectal cancer risk

Yuting Li ¹ Yuexin Luo ² Yue ， Ran ² Furong Lu ¹ You Qin ^1*

• ¹ Wuhan Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China
• ² Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China

Globally, colorectal malignancy ranks among the most prevalent forms of cancer and stands as the third principal cause of cancer-associated mortality. Recent studies indicate that inflammatory processes play a significant role in the initiation and advancement of various malignancies, colorectal cancer included. It explores inflammatory biomarkers, with C-reactive protein (CRP) being a key focus. While CRP's elevation during inflammation is linked to tumorigenesis, studies on its association with CRC risk are inconsistent, showing gender and methodological differences. Interleukin-6 (IL-6), TNF -α, and their receptors also play roles in CRC development, yet research findings vary. Adiponectin and leptin, secreted by adipocytes, have complex associations with CRC, with gender disparities noted. In terms of screening, non-invasive methods like Faecal occult blood tests (FOBTs) are widely used, and combining biomarkers with iFOBT shows potential. Multi-omics techniques, including genomics and microbiomics, offer new avenues for CRC diagnosis. Overall, while evidence highlights the significance of inflammatory biomarkers in CRC risk prediction, larger prospective studies are urgently needed to clarify their roles due to existing inconsistencies and methodological limitations. Keywords： Colorectal cancer, inflammation, C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin (IL)-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF -α)