Molecular and genetic features of colorectal carcinoma: pathomorphological demonstration of clinical cases and literature review

Background. Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is one of the most widespread malignancies worldwide; its morbidity rate is on the third place amidst the most common cancers. According to present data, such molecular markers as CyD1, HIF1α, LC3B, p21, p53 as well as the detection of KRAS gene amplification could be used for evaluation of tumor grade, its invasiveness, risk of metastases, sensitivity to anti-EGFR treatment, and further prognosis for patient’s survive. Objective. The purpose of this study was to make a literature review of the CRC molecular diagnostic approaches and demonstrate 5 cases of colorectal carcinoma in patients of Dnipro-city region in purpose to reveal their molecular-genetic features. Methods. Five formalin fixed paraffin embedded specimens of colorectal carcinoma from patients of Dnipro-city region were evaluated pathomorphologically with histological, immunohistochemical and fluorescence in situ hybridization methods. Results. Case study revealed increased level of p53, p21, and LC3B expression, minor elevation of CyD1 and HIF1α expression in demonstrated samples. Amplification of KRAS gene was not found. Conclusion. Our data analysis had revealed multiple studies dedicated to CRC molecular diagnostics with controversial results, what could be explained by both variable methodological approaches and epidemiological peculiarities of CRC in different sites of the globe. Therefore, there is a necessity in empirical identification of the molecular-genetic features of colorectal carcinomas in patients of our region that could improve current state of the art in CRC diagnostic and treatment approaches. Achieved data are the result of the trial and our research of this issue is ongoing.