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No predictive DNA mutation test can be performed on the colon to detect other mutation than the APC mutation (polyps). Physicians can see those.
We aim to allow physicians to detect mutated DNA inside the colon with innovative products that can interact with the epithelial layer of the colon and detect those mutations that can lead to tumors and possibly cancer.

Step-by-Step: How Colorectal Cancer Develops

Initiation (Genetic Mutation Begins)
- A mutation occurs in a key gene in an epithelial cell lining the colon.
- Most often, the first hit is in the APC gene, a tumor suppressor gene. Loss of APC function causes cells to proliferate abnormally.
Polyp Formation (Adenoma)
- With APC mutated, cells start to grow into a benign adenomatous polyp.
- Additional mutations, such as in the KRAS oncogene, push the polyp toward abnormal growth.
Progression to Carcinoma
- Further mutations (e.g., TP53, a tumor suppressor) can lead the polyp to become a full-blown carcinoma in situ — a cancer that hasn't yet invaded surrounding tissue.
Invasion and Metastasis
- The cancer invades deeper layers of the colon wall, enters blood or lymph vessels, and can spread (metastasize) to organs like the liver or lungs.

Types of Colorectal Cancer Pathways:

Chromosomal Instability Pathway
- Most common (~85%). Involves APC, KRAS, TP53 mutations.
- Classic adenoma-carcinoma sequence.
Microsatellite Instability (MSI) Pathway
- Caused by defects in DNA mismatch repair genes (like MLH1, MSH2).
- Common in hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC / Lynch syndrome).
- Tumors tend to respond well to immunotherapy.
CpG Island Methylator Phenotype (CIMP)
- Involves widespread DNA methylation silencing tumor suppressor genes.
- Often overlaps with MSI and BRAF mutations.
Prevention & Early Detection:
- Colonoscopy: Can detect and remove precancerous polyps before they become cancer.
- Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) or FIT: Screens for hidden blood in the stool.
- Stool DNA test (e.g., Cologuard): Detects mutations and blood in stool.
- Genetic testing: If family history suggests inherited syndromes.

CANCER OVERVIEW

🧬 Normal Colon Cells

Structure: Normal colon tissue features well-organized, oval-shaped glands lined with a single layer of uniform epithelial cells. (Mayo Clinic)
Cellular Characteristics: These cells have consistent shapes and sizes, with round nuclei and ample cytoplasm.
Functionality: They adhere tightly to neighboring cells, maintaining the integrity of the colon lining.(Verywell Health)

🧪 Colon Cancer Cells

Disorganized Architecture: Cancerous colon tissue exhibits a chaotic arrangement, with cells stacked irregularly and glandular structures disrupted. (Mayo Clinic)
Cellular Atypia: Cancer cells often display enlarged, irregularly shaped nuclei, prominent nucleoli, and reduced cytoplasm. (NCBI)
Loss of Cohesion: These cells may lose adhesion properties, allowing them to invade surrounding tissues.(Verywell Health)