Biomedicine

Abstract

Understanding the molecular underpinnings of colorectal cancer (CRC) is crucial for advancing its diagnosis and treatment. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of recent developments in CRC research, with a focus on biomarkers and nanotechnology-based approaches. The objectives are to explore the molecular factors contributing to CRC's pathogenesis, encompassing genetic alterations, epigenetic modifications, and disrupted signaling pathways. Additionally, the review assesses the latest advancements in CRC diagnostics and treatments facilitated by nanotechnology and biomarkers. In our extensive search of research spanning from 2014 to 2023, we meticulously analyzed selected articles to extract critical insights. Our findings reveal that CRC is marked by a combination of genetic and epigenetic changes, including abnormal DNA methylation patterns and mutations in key oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. Dysregulated signaling pathways, notably PI3K/Akt/mTOR and Wnt/-catenin, play pivotal roles in CRC development. Furthermore, current research is actively pursuing specific biomarkers and harnessing nanotechnology for improved CRC detection and tailored therapeutic interventions.