Comparison between oxaliplatin therapy and capecitabine monotherapy for high-risk stage II-III elderly colon cancer patients

Survival outcomes according to the tumor location and prognostic factor in metastatic rectal cancer: a multicenter retrospective cohort study

Background & aims

Prognostic factors of metastatic rectal cancer are not well known. We aim to determine prognostic factors affecting survival for metastatic rectal cancer patients and also to investigate the effect of tumor localization on overall survival.

Methods

Metastatic rectal cancer patients who received treatment in 5 different centers between 2012 and 2022 were included. Prognostic factors for survival were evaluated using univariate and multivariate analysis. The statistical methods included Pearson's chi-square test, Fisher exact test, Log-rank test, and Cox regression model.

Results

A total of 283 patients with metastatic rectal cancer were included in the study. The median OS was not significantly different among the three groups (upper rectum 30.1 months, middle rectum 28.3 months, and low rectum cancer 24.8 months; log-rank p = 0.25). In univariate analysis, Grade 3, ECOG performance status 2, the presence of multiple metastatic sites, the presence of KRAS mutation, the presence of liver metastases, the presence of nonregional lymph node metastases, and the presence of bone metastases were significant predictors of poor survival. In multivariate analysis, Grade 3, ECOG performance status 2, and the presence of multiple metastatic sites were determined as indicators of worse prognosis.

Conclusion

Our findings, primary tumor location did not affect survival in metastatic rectal cancer. The most important factors affecting survival were multiple metastatic sites, tumor grade, and ECOG performance status.

Colorectal Cancer Stem Cell Biomarkers: Biological Traits and Prognostic Insights

Due to self-renewal, differentiation, and limitless proliferation properties, Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs) increase the probability of tumor development. These cells are identified by using CSC markers, which are highly expressed proteins on the cell surface of CSCs. Recently, the therapeutic application of CSCs as novel biomarkers improved both the prognosis and diagnosis outcome of colorectal Cancer. In the present review, we focused on a specific panel of colorectal CSC markers, including LGR5, ALDH, CD166, CD133, and CD44, which offers a targeted and comprehensive analysis of their functions. The selection criteria for these markers cancer were based on their established significance in Colorectal Cancer (CRC) pathogenesis and clinical outcomes, providing novel insights into the CSC biology of CRC. Through this approach, we aim to elevate understanding and stimulate further research for developing effective diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in CRC.

Depicting the DNA Binding and Cytotoxicity Studies against Human Colorectal Cancer of Aquabis (1-Formyl-2-Naphtholato-k2O,O′) Copper(II): A Biophysical and Molecular Docking Perspective

In this study, we attempted to examine the biological activity of the copper(II)–based small molecule aquabis (1-formyl-2-naphtholato-k2O,O′)copper(II) (1) against colon cancer. The characterization of complex 1 was established by analytical and spectral methods in accordance with the single-crystal X-ray results. A monomeric unit of complex 1 exists in an O4 (H2O) coordination environment with slightly distorted square pyramidal geometry (τ = ~0.1). The interaction of complex 1 with calf thymus DNA (ctDNA) was determined by employing various biophysical techniques, which revealed that complex 1 binds to ctDNA at the minor groove with a binding constant of 2.38 × 105 M–1. The cytotoxicity of complex 1 towards human colorectal cell line (HCT116) was evaluated by the MTT assay, which showed an IC50 value of 11.6 μM after treatment with complex 1 for 24 h. Furthermore, the apoptotic effect induced by complex 1 was validated by DNA fragmentation pattern, which clarified that apoptosis might be regulated through the mitochondrial-mediated production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) causing DNA damage pathway. Additionally, molecular docking was also carried out to confirm the recognition of complex 1 at the minor groove.