Unveiling the Dynamics of Circulating Tumor Cells in Colorectal Cancer: from Biology to Clinical Applications

Overview

Journal Front Cell Dev Biol

Specialty Cell Biology

Date 2024 Nov 14

PMID 39539964

Authors

Claudia Dompe

Aleksandra Chojnowska

Rodryg Ramlau

Michal Nowicki

Catherine Alix-Panabieres

Joanna Budna-Tukan

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

This review delves into the pivotal role of circulating tumor cells (CTCs) in colorectal cancer (CRC) metastasis, focusing on their biological properties, interactions with the immune system, advanced detection techniques, and clinical implications. We explored how metastasis-competent CTCs evade immune surveillance and proliferate, utilizing cutting-edge detection and isolation technologies, such as microfluidic devices and immunological assays, to enhance sensitivity and specificity. The review highlights the significant impact of CTC interactions with immune cells on tumor progression and patient outcomes. It discusses the application of these findings in clinical settings, including non-invasive liquid biopsies for early diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment monitoring. Despite advancements, challenges remain, such as the need for standardized methods to consistently capture and analyze CTCs. Addressing these challenges through further molecular and cellular research on CTCs could lead to improved interventions and outcomes for CRC patients, underscoring the importance of unraveling the complex dynamics of CTCs in cancer progression.

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