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AKR1B1 Expression in the Colorectal Tumor Microenvironment Contributes Towards Its Prognostic Significance

  • 0Division of Tumor Pathology, Department of Clinical Oncology, Cancer Institute, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkiye.
Cancer Medicine +

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May 21, 2025

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May 21, 2025

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Aldo-keto reductase B1 (AKR1B1) is found in colorectal cancer stroma, particularly in M2 macrophages. Stromal AKR1B1 expression correlates with favorable survival, highlighting the tumor microenvironment

Area Of Science

  • Oncology
  • Biochemistry
  • Immunology

Background

  • Aldo-keto reductase B1 (AKR1B1) is implicated in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression.
  • Previous studies linked AKR1B1 to CRC cell motility, proliferation, and poor prognosis.
  • The role of AKR1B1 in the tumor microenvironment (TME), especially in stromal cells, remains unclear.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To investigate AKR1B1 expression in the CRC TME, focusing on stromal cells.
  • To determine the association between stromal AKR1B1 expression and clinical outcomes in CRC patients.

Main Methods

  • Analysis of publicly available transcriptomic data from CRC tumors.
  • Single-cell RNA-sequencing to identify cell type-specific AKR1B1 expression.
  • Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence in Turkish and Serbian cohorts to assess AKR1B1 and CD163 (M2 macrophage marker) co-localization.

Main Results

  • AKR1B1 is expressed in both epithelial and stromal components of CRC, with higher levels in the stroma.
  • Single-cell analysis revealed AKR1B1 expression in various immune and stromal cells, notably M2 macrophages.
  • Stromal AKR1B1 expression, particularly in M2 macrophages, correlated with favorable overall survival in Turkish CRC patients.

Conclusions

  • AKR1B1 expression in the CRC TME, especially within stromal cells like M2 macrophages, influences clinical outcomes.
  • The composition of the TME significantly modulates the impact of AKR1B1 on CRC prognosis.

Keywords:

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