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Novel Blood-Based Biomarker Candidates in Screening for Colorectal Cancer
Mathias M Petersen1, Jakob Kleif2, Jason Liggett3
1Gastro Unit, Surgical Section, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark; Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
Clinical Colorectal Cancer
|November 25, 2025
Summary
Blood tests show promise for early colorectal cancer (CRC) detection. A panel including IL-8, OPG, CEA, and ferritin can help identify patients with early-stage CRC in screening programs.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomarker Discovery
- Cancer Screening
Background:
- Blood-based biomarkers offer a less invasive alternative to current colorectal cancer (CRC) screening methods.
- Improving compliance in population-based screening programs is crucial for early CRC detection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify blood-based biomarkers for early-stage, asymptomatic colorectal cancer (CRC).
- To evaluate the potential of these biomarkers in national CRC screening programs.
Main Methods:
- Serum levels of 18 blood biomarkers were measured in 1982 participants with a positive fecal immunochemical test (FIT).
- Biomarkers associated with CRC were identified and combined with age and sex in a predictive multivariable model.
- Statistical analyses adjusted for potential confounders.
Main Results:
- Data from 1959 subjects revealed 237 (12.1%) had CRC and 623 (31.8%) had advanced adenomas.
- Interleukin-8 (IL-8) was associated with CRC progression and early-stage CRC.
- A panel combining IL-8, osteop অনুগ্রহ (OPG), carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), ferritin, and age achieved an AUC of 0.717 for CRC discrimination.
Conclusions:
- Blood-based biomarker panels, including colorectal neoplasia-associated proteins, show potential for early CRC detection.
- Interleukin-8 (IL-8) may significantly impact future CRC screening models.
- Further validation in actual screening cohorts is necessary.
