Diagnostic and prognostic significance of ALU-based cell-free DNA in colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

IntroductionColorectal cancer (CRC) is a major global health concern. This study aimed to investigate the role of ALU-based cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the diagnosis and prognosis of CRC.MethodsWe selected relevant literature from PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Science Direct databases based on strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. 17 eligible studies were included in the final analysis (13 studies for diagnostic and 4 studies for prognostic meta-analysis). The search covered relevant publications up to July 1, 2024.ResultsThe pooled sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic odds ratios (DOR) of ALU-based cfDNA in CRC diagnosis were 0.81 (95% CI= [0.70, 0.89]), 0.90 (95% CI= [0.70, 0.96]), and 40.58 (95% CI= [17.87, 92.19]), respectively. The area under the ROC curve was 0.92 (95% CI= [0.89, 0.94]). Patients with higher concentrations of plasma/serum ALU-based cfDNA had poorer overall survival (OS) (pooled hazard ratio = 2.33 ([95% CI= [1.80, 3.03]).ConclusionThe current evidence supports the utility of circulating ALU as a promising non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tool for CRC. Furthermore, as a potential biomarker, ALU-based cfDNA could play a significant role in clinical application.Clinical implicationsThe evidence suggests that circulating ALU-based cell-free DNA (cfDNA) holds promise as a non-invasive diagnostic and prognostic tool for colorectal cancer, potentially enhancing clinical decision-making.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier PROSPERO (CRD42023486369).