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Molecular genetics of colorectal cancer: An overview

  • Published:
Current Colorectal Cancer Reports

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality from cancers in the United States. Recent studies have revealed the paradigm in which sequential genetic changes (mutations) result in the progression from normal colonic tissues to frank carcinoma. In particular, the study of hereditary colorectal cancer and polyposis syndromes such as familial adenomatous polyposis and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer has contributed enormously to the understanding of the pathogenesis of CRC. Here we describe some of the common genetic pathways in CRC and the mechanisms of action for some of the key genes involved in the formation of CRC. The understanding of the genetic pathways and functions in CRC may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches for treating this deadly disease.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Digestive Diseases, Department of Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, 201 Whitehead Biomedical Research Building, 615 Michael Street, 30322, Atlanta, GA, USA

    Vincent W. Yang MD, PhD

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  1. Irfan M. Hisamuddin MD
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  2. Vincent W. Yang MD, PhD
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Correspondence to Vincent W. Yang MD, PhD.

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Hisamuddin, I.M., Yang, V.W. Molecular genetics of colorectal cancer: An overview. Curr colorectal cancer rep 2, 53–59 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11888-006-0002-2

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11888-006-0002-2

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