Krämer Anna¹, Vogel Leon², Franke Marie³, Bennett Oliver⁴, Lang Clara⁵, Schuster Paul⁶
ABSTRACT:
Background: Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a leading cause of cancer-related mortality, emphasizing the need for non-invasive, early detection methods and precise therapy monitoring. Methods and Results: This review synthesizes 200+ studies on circulating biomarkers, including cell-free DNA (cfDNA), exosomal miRNAs, and metabolic signatures, for CRC detection and therapy assessment. Multi-omic integration of these biomarkers demonstrates superior diagnostic accuracy (AUC > 0.90) and predictive value for treatment response. Conclusion: Circulating biomarkers offer a transformative approach to CRC management but require standardization and validation in diverse cohorts for clinical implementation.