Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. The occurrence of CRC is associated with various genetic and epigenetic mutations in intestinal epithelial cells that transform them into adenocarcinomas. There is increasing evidence indicating the gut microbiota plays a crucial role in the regulation of host physiological processes. Alterations in gut microbiota composition are responsible for initiating carcinogenesis through diverse epigenetic modifications, including histone modifications, ncRNAs and DNA methylation. This work was designed to comprehensively review recent findings to provide insight into the associations between the gut microbiota and CRC at an epigenetic level. These scientific insights can be used in the future to develop effective strategies for early detection and treatment of CRC.
Keywords: DNA methylation; colorectal cancer; epigenetics; gut microbiota; histone modification; ncRNA.
Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a major cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. It happens when certain changes occur in the cells lining the intestine, turning them into cancerous growths. Recent studies suggest the collection of microbes in our gut, called the gut microbiota, plays a big role in how our body works. Dysregulation in gut microbiota composition is responsible for the development of colorectal cancer. This work provides a closer look at these recent discoveries to better understand how gut microbes might influence the development of colorectal cancer by affecting gene function. Understanding this connection may facilitate early diagnosis and treatment of colorectal cancer.