Genomic and Metabolomic Landscape of Right-Sided and Left-Sided Colorectal Cancer: Potential Preventive Biomarkers

Abstract

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer worldwide. The incidence and mortality rates of CRC are significantly higher in Taiwan than in other developed countries. Genes involved in CRC tumorigenesis differ depending on whether the tumor occurs on the left or right side of the colon, and genomic analysis is a keystone in the study and treatment of CRC subtypes. However, few studies have focused on the genetic landscape of Taiwanese patients with CRC. This study comprehensively analyzed the genomes of 141 Taiwanese patients with CRC through whole-exome sequencing. Significant genomic differences related to the site of CRC development were observed. Blood metabolomic profiling and polygenic risk score analysis were performed to identify potential biomarkers for the early identification and prevention of CRC in the Taiwanese population. Our findings provide vital clues for establishing population-specific treatments and health policies for CRC prevention in Taiwan.