Expression of CD133-stem cell marker in colorectal cancer

Introduction: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Cancer stem cells (CSCs) contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and treatment resistance. CD133, a transmembrane glycoprotein known as prominin-1, is a CSC marker, but its prognostic significance in CRC remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate CD133 expression in CRC, its connection with clinicopathological features, and its impact on disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Material and methods: A retrospective study was conducted on 87 patients diagnosed with CRC who underwent surgical treatment. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining was performed to assess CD133 expression in tumor cells and lymph nodes. CD133 expression was categorized into low/no expression (LE) and high expression (HE). Survival analyses were performed using Kaplan-Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models. Results: CD133 expression was detected in 96.55% of cases, with 75.86% exhibiting extensive expression. No significant correlation was found between CD133 expression and clinicopathological features. High CD133 expression was not associated with DFS (p = 0.313) or OS (p = 0.319). However, a trend toward improved DFS (p = 0.056) and OS (p = 0.055) was observed in patients with HE. In patients with fewer than 12 lymph nodes removed, low CD133 expression in lymph nodes was associated with shorter DFS (p = 0.04). Conclusions: CD133 expression was highly prevalent in CRC but did not serve as an independent prognostic factor. Its role in survival prediction remains uncertain, requires further investigation in larger cohorts. Immunohistochemical evaluation of CD133 remains challenging, highlighting the need for standardized assessment protocols.