New Research Offers Hope Against Rare Colorectal Cancer

Why in the News ?

Scientists from Tata Memorial Centre have developed patient-derived organoid and xenograft models to study Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma (SRCC), a rare and aggressive colorectal cancer. This breakthrough could enable targeted therapies and improve treatment outcomes for SRCC patients.

New Breakthrough in Rare Colorectal Cancer Research:

  • Scientists have devised advanced methods to understand and treat Signet Ring Cell Carcinoma (SRCC) — a rare and aggressive subtype of colorectal cancer (CRC).
  • SRCC is known for its distinct ring-shaped cancer cells, rapid spread, and resistance to standard treatments.
  • A major challenge in treating SRCC is its tendency to spread to the peritoneum (the abdominal lining), which worsens patient survival chances.
  • The findings were published in Clinical Cancer Research journal on April 1, led by Nazia Chaudhary from ACTREC, Tata Memorial Centre.

SRCC in India: Higher Incidence and Early Onset

  • Though globally SRCC makes up only 1% of CRC cases, in India, it impacts a disproportionately higher number of patients.
  • The cancer often strikes younger individuals and is especially difficult to treat in India due to its early and aggressive spread.
  • Studies show central and northern India report the highest proportion of SRCC cases.

Innovative Models Offer New Hope

  • The research team developed Patient-Derived Organoids (PDOs) and Patient-Derived Xenografts (PDXs) — mini, lab-grown replicas of real human SRCC tumors.
  • These models mimic real tumor behavior, helping scientists study molecular features and test new drug combinations.
  • A promising three-drug combination was found to reduce tumor size and control cancer spread in lab tests.
  • This breakthrough could lead to targeted treatments and future clinical trials, offering new hope for SRCC patients.

About Colorectal diseases:

●  Colorectal diseases impact the colon and rectum, ranging from cancerous to inflammatory, functional, and benign conditions.
● Colorectal Cancer (CRC):

○  Begins in colon/rectum, often from polyps.

○ Rapidly rising in Indian urban areas; among top cancers.

●  Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD):

○ Chronic inflammation of the digestive tract.

○ Increasing in India due to diet, lifestyle, and better diagnosis.

● Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):

○ Causes pain, bloating, altered bowel habits.

○  No structural damage; highly common in India.

●Diverticular Disease:

○  Pouches in colon wall cause pain when inflamed.

●  Hemorrhoids/Anal Fissures:

○ Swollen veins or anal tears causing discomfort and bleeding.