Research and clinical applications of molecular biomarkers in gastrointestinal carcinoma (Review)

Abstract

Gastrointestinal (GI) carcinoma is a common malignant disease worldwide. Its development and progression is a multistage process involving a multifactorial etiology. Although the detailed mechanisms of the development of GI carcinoma remain controversial, the elucidation of its molecular biology over the last few years has resulted in a better perspective on its epidemiology, carcinogenesis and pathogenesis. More significantly, it is currently possible to use biological indicators or biomarkers in differential diagnosis, prognostic evaluation and specific clinical interventions. In this review, we aimed to describe the biomarkers of pathogenesis, invasion, metastasis and prognosis of GI carcinoma and discuss their potential clinical applications. The majority of these biomarkers, such as tumor-associated antigens, oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes, metastasis-associated genes, cell adhesion molecules, cytokines, growth factors and microRNAs, are currently broadly applicable.

<p>Nomogram for Predicting Risk of Digestive Carcinoma Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes</p>

“…[10][11][12][13] Epidemiological data suggest that diabetes increases the relative risk of digestive cancers more than twofold, 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with more aggressive digestive tract cancers. 14 Universal screening using potential biomarkers such as cancer antigen 19-9, carcinoembryonic antigens, or clinical tests (eg, computed tomography, endoscopic ultrasound, or magnetic resonance imaging) is not feasible, [15][16][17] as the existing biomarkers have limited diagnostic accuracy. Therefore, there is an urgent clinical need for novel prediction models and screening methods that are both efficient and cost-effective for the detection of asymptomatic cases.…”