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.