Cells, Vol. 13, Pages 679: Somatic Mutations in Surgically Treated Colorectal Liver Metastases: An Overview

Cells, Vol. 13, Pages 679: Somatic Mutations in Surgically Treated Colorectal Liver Metastases: An Overview

Cells doi: 10.3390/cells13080679

Authors: Jane Wang Julia Botvinov Aarshvi Jahnvi Bhatt Katharina Beyer Martin E. Kreis Mohamed Adam Adnan Alseidi Georgios Antonios Margonis

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States, and up to half of patients develop colorectal liver metastases (CRLMs). Notably, somatic genetic mutations, such as mutations in RAS, BRAF, mismatch repair (MMR) genes, TP53, and SMAD4, have been shown to play a prognostic role in patients with CRLM. This review summarizes and appraises the current literature regarding the most relevant somatic mutations in surgically treated CRLM by not only reviewing representative studies, but also providing recommendations for areas of future research. In addition, advancements in genetic testing and an increasing emphasis on precision medicine have led to a more nuanced understanding of these mutations; thus, more granular data for each mutation are reviewed when available. Importantly, such knowledge can pave the way for precision medicine with the ultimate goal of improving patient outcomes.