Multiplex Detection of Circulating Biomarkers for Early and Progressive Stages of Colorectal Cancer

Abstract

Aim. To evaluate the diagnostic potential of a panel of serum biomarkers for detecting CRC at different stages using multiplex xMAP technology. Materials and Methods. The study included serum samples from 137 patients with CRC and 100 healthy donors. The concentrations of ten biomarkers (L1CAM, CA9, mesothelin, midkine, hepsin, kallikrein-6, TGM2, ALDH1A1, EpCAM, and CD44) were determined using the Luminex MAGPIX® platform. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric methods. Results. It was found that the concentrations of midkine, mesothelin, hepsin, and kallikrein-6 were significantly elevated in CRC patients compared to the control group (p≤0.001), while L1CAM and CA9 levels also showed significant differences (p≤0.05). Stage-specific analysis revealed that midkine, mesothelin, CA9, and TGM2 were associated with early stages of CRC, whereas kallikrein-6 and hepsin were associated with tumor progression and metastasis. At the same time, some biomarkers (EpCAM, CD44, ALDH1A1) did not show statistically significant differences between groups. Conclusion. The obtained results indicate the potential of multiplex analysis of serum biomarkers for the early detection of CRC. A combination of biomarkers reflecting different mechanisms of tumor development may improve diagnostic accuracy and serve as a basis for the development of non-invasive screening tests. Conflict of Interest: nothing to disclose.