Summary
This narrative review synthesises current knowledge of metabolic reprogramming in colorectal cancer, emphasising the central role of intestinal stem cell metabolism in tumour initiation and progression. The authors examine how diet and environmental factors interact with genetic changes and the tumour microenvironment—comprising epithelial, immune, stromal, and microbial components—to drive CRC development. The review highlights emerging evidence that modifiable environmental factors, particularly diet, represent important leverage points for CRC prevention and treatment.
Regional applicability
The review draws on mechanistic and epidemiological evidence applicable to United Kingdom populations, where colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer mortality. The emphasis on dietary modifiability and prevention aligns with UK cancer prevention strategy, though specific dietary recommendations would require translation to UK dietary patterns and food systems.
Key measures
Metabolic pathways in intestinal stem cells and CRC cells; dietary influence on CRC initiation; tumour microenvironment composition and interactions; genetic and metabolic alterations along the adenoma-carcinoma sequence
Outcomes reported
The review examines metabolic reprogramming in colorectal cancer (CRC) cells and intestinal stem cells, and explores the role of dietary and environmental factors in CRC initiation and progression. It synthesizes mechanistic links between diet, metabolic adaptation, tumour microenvironment interactions, and colorectal tumorigenesis.
Supporting research
The author abstract explicitly focuses on dietary exposures and dietary/metabolic mechanisms in colorectal-cancer initiation.
Limits: Mechanistic nutrition review, not a new dietary clinical trial or proof that a food/diet prevents or treats cancer.
Topic tags
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