A systematic review of clinically available gene expression profiling assays for stage II colorectal cancer: initial steps toward genetic staging

Abstract

Background: In recent years, increasingly accessible and novel genetic technologies have spurred keen interest in the application of cancer genetics in predicting prognosis and response to treatment. In particular, investigators have eagerly sought to establish and validate genetic signatures that might improve the identification of patients with stage II colorectal cancer (CRC) who are at highest risk of recurrence. To better understand the evidence for incorporation of genetic assays into clinical practice, we have systematically reviewed those assays that have been validated and are available for clinical use in stage II CRC.

Methods: A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Web of Science and Scopus databases. The GRADE system was used to evaluate level of evidence and strength of recommendations.

Results: After duplicates were removed and exclusion criteria were applied, there were 13 articles for review.

Conclusion: Identifying high-risk patients with stage II CRC using molecular profiling has been the primary aim of many investigators, and the approach is translating into clinical utility.

Keywords: Colorectal cancer; Genetic assays; Genetic expression profiles; Genetic signatures; Stage II.