Stage-Dependent Role of Eicosanoids in Colorectal Cancer

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.