Evolution of enteric viruses in the progression of colorectal cancer via the adenoma-carcinoma sequence pathway

The global incidence of colorectal cancer (CRC) is increasing. In the majority of CRC cases, colon cancer develops from alterations in the adenoma-carcinoma sequence pathway. Currently, there are few studies regarding the effects of enteric viruses on the adenoma-carcinoma sequence pathway, and subsequently, the progression and development of the CRC. Here, fecal and tissue samples from a normal control group, an adenomatous polyp group, and a colorectal adenocarcinoma group were collected to gain a deeper understanding of the variations in enteric viruses in CRC patients and to analyze their significance. With the progression of CRC from adenoma to adenocarcinoma, the number of DNA viruses in the virus-like particles (VLPs) of fecal and tissue samples gradually increased, and there were distinct differences in the composition of enteric viruses among the different groups. Multiple species correlation analysis revealed extensive interactions among viruses, bacteria, and fungi in fecal and tissue samples. Functional analysis also revealed that the functional pathways in fecal and tissue samples also underwent significant changes. In conclusion, the changes in the composition and function of enteric viruses in the progression of CRC via adenoma-carcinoma sequence pathway were analyzed in this study, and these changes hold certain importance for exploring the role of enteric viruses in the occurrence of this disease; however, their mode of action and specific mechanisms require further investigation.