Texas researchers uncover clue behind rise in colon cancer among young adults

Researchers in Texas have conducted a new study indicating that alterations in the physical structure of colon tissue could offer clues about the increasing rates of colorectal cancer diagnoses among adults under the age of 50.

Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas and UT Southwestern Medical Center have discovered that colon tissue in younger patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer exhibits a notable increase in stiffness compared to that of older patients. 

A recent study published in the journal Advanced Science indicates that increased stiffness could foster an environment conducive to earlier tumor development. Early-onset colorectal cancer has been increasing steadily for decades and has become one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among people younger than 50 in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society. 

The team conducted an analysis of colon tissue samples collected from 33 patients diagnosed with colorectal cancer who were undergoing surgical procedures. It was revealed that the group comprised 19 patients over the age of 50 suffering from typical colorectal cancer, alongside 14 patients under 50 who were diagnosed with early-onset disease.

Scientists employed microindentation testing, applying gentle pressure with a probe to assess the tissue's resistance to deformation. The technique enabled scientists to accurately assess the stiffness of each sample. The findings indicated a distinct trend: tumor tissue and adjacent healthy tissue in younger patients exhibited significantly greater stiffness than in older patients.

Dr. Jacopo Ferruzzi, an assistant professor of bioengineering at UT Dallas and a corresponding author of the study, stated, “This is the first study to highlight the key role of biomechanical forces in the pathogenesis of early-onset colorectal cancer.” 

According to researchers, the observed stiffness is attributed to fibrosis, a process that generates scar-like tissue and elevates collagen levels. Collagen, a structural protein essential for tissue support, can become rigid when produced in excess.

The colon serves as a dynamic conduit, facilitating the movement of waste through the digestive system. As tissue becomes rigid, the physical environment surrounding cells undergoes significant changes.

Recent laboratory experiments have validated the observed effect. Research indicates that colorectal cancer cells exhibit increased proliferation and aggressive behavior when cultured in stiffer environments.

Dr. Emina H. Huang, executive vice chair of research for surgery at UT Southwestern and co-corresponding author of the study, stated, “We consider this study a significant advancement toward identifying those at risk of early-onset colorectal cancer and finding new ways to treat them.”

According to researchers, this discovery could enable doctors to identify risks earlier. New diagnostic tools are being developed to assess colon tissue stiffness and collagen levels, which could help doctors spot warning signs before tumors form.

As research continues to explore the rising number of younger patients, experts emphasize the importance of awareness in addressing this trend. Colorectal cancer may present with several symptoms, including ongoing abdominal pain, the presence of blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, and alterations in bowel habits.

In an important development, health authorities across several countries have revised the recommended age for colorectal cancer screening, lowering it from 50 to 45. This change aims to facilitate earlier case detection.