Current Perspective and Treatment Strategies in Targeted Therapy for Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most commonly occurring cancer and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Conventional treatments for CRC, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy, have long been the primary options for patients. However, their therapeutic success rates are relatively low, necessitating the development of novel technologies. The prognosis for metastatic CRC patients has historically been unsatisfactory. Recent efforts have focused on advancing our understanding of CRC progression, leading to improvements in CRC management and the identification of key regulatory genes involved in colorectal cancer. The complex interaction between the tumor microenvironment and CRC progression has unveiled new immunotherapy targets, including immune checkpoint inhibitors and CAR T-cell-based therapies. Additionally, novel approaches targeting cell signaling pathways that promote cell proliferation and metastasis in CRC show great potential for improving patient outcomes. This article explores and summarizes the epidemiology, carcinogenesis, and stages of CRC, as well as current treatment strategies and drug targets. It highlights the molecular mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis and progression in colorectal cancer.