Colorectal Cancer 15-Gene Prognostic Signature (CXCL8, MMP7, CA4, ADH1C, GUCA2A, GUCA2B, CEMIP, ZG16, CLCA4, MS4A12, CLDN1, FOXC1, YY1, GATA2, NFKB1) (CRC-15 Signature)

The Colorectal Cancer 15-Gene Prognostic Signature is a composite biomarker panel consisting of CXCL8, MMP7, CA4, ADH1C, GUCA2A, GUCA2B, CEMIP, ZG16, CLCA4, MS4A12, CLDN1, FOXC1, YY1, GATA2, and NFKB1. This specific set of genes is frequently identified in transcriptomic studies (such as those utilizing the GSE39582 dataset) as a robust tool for predicting patient outcomes, including recurrence and survival rates in colorectal cancer (CRC) [PubMed: 31435448, 28656234]. The panel includes upregulated oncogenic factors like CXCL8 (Interleukin-8) and MMP7 (Matrilysin), which drive inflammation and tissue remodeling, as well as downregulated tumor suppressors or differentiation markers like GUCA2A (Guanylin) and MS4A12 [UniProt: P10145, P09237, P35858]. While individual proteins within this list, such as the pro-inflammatory cytokine CXCL8 and the transcription factor NFKB1, are significant therapeutic targets in oncology and immunology, the 15-gene list itself functions as a diagnostic and prognostic signature rather than a single druggable entity [NCBI Gene: 3576, 4790]. Targeting the pathways represented by this signature involves a multi-pronged approach, including the use of monoclonal antibodies against chemokines and small molecule inhibitors of matrix metalloproteinases or signaling kinases [PubChem: CID 10430, 191]. This signature highlights the complex interplay between metabolic reprogramming, immune evasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition in the progression of intestinal malignancies.

Other names

CRC Prognostic Gene PanelColorectal Cancer Differentially Expressed Gene Set15-Gene CRC Signature

The components of this signature act through various mechanisms: CXCL8 acts as a CXCR1/2 agonist to promote neutrophil chemotaxis and angiogenesis; MMP7 proteolytically degrades the extracellular matrix to facilitate invasion; NFKB1 regulates the transcription of pro-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic genes; and GUCA2A/B activate GUCY2C to maintain intestinal electrolyte balance.