Genetics of colorectal cancer and adenoma

Genetics of colorectal cancer and adenoma

Adenoma in colorectal cancer 

An adenoma in colorectal cancer refers to a small, non-cancerous lump that forms in the lining of the colon or rectum. Yet, if left untreated, this lump could turn into colorectal cancer. This is why doctors often remove adenomas they find during check-ups. By removing these lumps early, doctors can prevent colorectal cancer from developing.

How was the research done?

Researchers plan to use existing data on studies that include people who have colorectal cancer (CRC) and those who don’t. Researchers want to compare this data between different racial groups to find if there are specific genes that could increase the risk of CRC. Researchers will also use existing data to focus on colorectal adenoma (CRA). They will do the same comparison, but with people who have CRA and those who don’t. In addition to BioVU samples and information these researchers will use tissue for RNA research. Researchers will conduct this portion of the study outside of BioVU by using information from a type of test called RNA-sequencing. Which will tell them about gene activity in tissue samples from the colon. With this information, researchers will create models that predict gene activity in different racial groups. Researchers will then use these models to find out if there are specific genes related to CRC and CRA that behave in different races.

What is the importance of this research?

By studying these genes, scientists can learn more about why some people get CRC and others don’t. They can also find out how to better prevent or treat them. If a certain genetic risk is found to increase the chance of colorectal cancer, a new medicine could be developed to target this specific change. Understanding the genetics of colorectal cancer and adenoma can help us fight these diseases more.