Evaluation of Epigenetic Markers in the Diagnosis and Prognosis of Colorectal Cancer

Introduction: colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related death worldwide. Epigenetic factors play a significant role in its development and are increasingly used as tools for early diagnosis and prognosis of this disease. Method: a literature review was conducted on studies published in the last 10 years, available in databases such as PubMed, Cochrane, and SciELO. The selected studies analyze the effectiveness of epigenetic markers, such as DNA methylation and microRNAs, in CRC detection and prognosis. Results: out of 112 articles reviewed, 45 studies met the inclusion criteria, excluding duplicates and those that did not align with the objectives of this review. The analyzed studies highlight that epigenetic marker, particularly the methylation of genes such as SEPT9, NDRG4, and BMP3, are effective in detecting colorectal cancer (CRC) in its early stages, thus enhancing early intervention opportunities. Key microRNAs, such as miR-21, miR-92a, and miR-29a, were also identified, with their alteration associated with CRC progression and aggression prediction. Conclusions: epigenetic markers provide valuable insights into tumor behavior, metastatic potential, and response to various treatment modalities. Some of the most recent studies suggest that the combined use of epigenetic biomarkers and traditional screening methods, such as colonoscopy, may optimize diagnostic accuracy.