Genomic profiling of colorectal cancers and the future of personalized treatment

摘要

New technologies have enabled faster, cheaper and more accurate genomic and other types of profiling. Therefore, treatment has become more customized according to molecular subtype. Here, we summarize the current status of genomic profiling for colorectal cancer (CRC) and discuss future directions. Recently, the CRC Subtyping Consortium classified CRC into four subtypes: CMS1, microsatellite instability immune (14%); CMS2, canonical (37%); CMS3, metabolic (13%); and CMS4, mesenchymal (23%). Testing for KRAS, NRAS and BRAF mutations, and microsatellite instability status in CRC has proven essential for treatment decisions. Tumor heterogeneity and the evolution of drug-resistant subclones after therapy should be further assessed and pursued. Patient-derived xenografts and liquid biopsies might facilitate the development of optimum and accurate personalized therapy regimens.