# Stage-Dependent Role of Eicosanoids in Colorectal Cancer

## TL;DR

This study explores how eicosanoids in the blood can indicate the stage of colorectal cancer, potentially helping with diagnosis and treatment.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific eicosanoids associated with advanced stages of colorectal cancer, offering new biomarker candidates.

## Key findings

- Advanced CRC stages show significantly increased levels of PGD2, PGE2, and TXB2.
- TXB2 is consistently associated with advanced disease, while LTB4 and PGD2 inversely relate to local invasion.
- PGE2 is not a viable biomarker for CRC staging.

## Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major health concern with increasing incidence, especially in younger adults. This study evaluated the stage-dependent role of serum eicosanoids as biomarkers in CRC patients. A cohort of 122 patients undergoing curative colorectal resection was prospectively recruited. Serum eicosanoid profiles were evaluated using targeted metabolomics and analyzed through regression-based statistical models to identify associations with CRC staging. The more advanced stages of CRC (with N+ and M+) showed significantly increased levels of PGD2, PGE2, and TXB2. The latter proved to be consistently associated with advanced disease. LTB4 and PGD2 showed inverse relationships relative to each other with respect to local invasion, showing PGD2 as a marker of higher T stages. PGE2 was not recognized as a viable biomarker. The progression of CRC is associated with distinct alterations in eicosanoid profiles. This study showed the potential of TXB2, LTB4, and PGD2 as indicators of CRC advancement.