Pathogenesis of Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Colorectal cancer, because of its high morbidity and mortality rates, is one of the most studied human diseases. Advances in our understanding of the molecular genetics and epigenetics of colorectal cancer have led to novel insights into its pathogenesis. The results show that both pathogenic mechanisms and the influence of the etiological factors create a complex and multifarious network of events. Somatic and germline mutations, alongside with chromosomal and microsatellite instability, and epigenetic changes were found to be the key factors in both heritable and sporadic cases of colorectal cancer.