Intest Res.  2009 Dec;7(2):73-78.

Stool Based DNA Biomarkers for Colorectal Cancer Diagnosis

• Won CS
• Kim HS

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer incidence and death worldwide. CRCs develop from morphologic transformation of normal colon epithelium to neoplasia thorough a sequential accumulation of genetic or epigenetic events. This slow carcinogenic process enables the diagnosis of CRC at earlier stages if the adequate screening strategies are feasible. In practice, recent researches have provided a technical tool for the detection of an early disease by a selective combination of noninvasive biomarkers using stool DNA, which may lead to cure the disease effectively. However, these noninvasive biomarkers for CRC screening should have acceptable sensitivity with high specificity in order to prevent unnecessary colonoscopies and consequent risks. Stool based DNA biomarkers can be used with ease and lead to greatly enhance screening acceptance. Identification of noble genetic and epigenetic DNA molecules selectively derived from colorectal neoplasia in stool can be in the forefront of CRC screening by becoming an optimal and affordable means of early detection as well as prevention of CRC in the general population.

Keyword

Colorectal Neoplasms; Diagnosis; Stool DNA; Biological Markers

MeSH Terms

Biomarkers
Calcium Hydroxide
Colon
Colonoscopy
Colorectal Neoplasms
DNA
Epigenomics
Epithelium
Incidence
Mass Screening
Sensitivity and Specificity
Zinc Oxide
Calcium Hydroxide
DNA
Zinc Oxide