Clinical value of serum TNF-α and IL-2R as treatment predictive and prognostic biomarkers in metastatic colorectal cancer.

[BACKGROUND] Metastatic colorectal cancer remains a major global health concern, with advanced-stage disease posing significant challenges in terms of treatment and prognosis. Cytokines, key mediators of immune regulation and inflammation, have emerged as potential prognostic biomarkers in CRC. However, their prognostic value in the context of first-line standard therapy remains unclear.

[METHODS] This retrospective observational study included 95 patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who underwent first-line therapy at Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center between 2020 and 2021. Baseline levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-2R, IL-6, IL-8, and IL-10 before treatment were assessed, and patients were categorized into high and low cytokine expression groups. Survival outcomes were analyzed based on baseline cytokine levels and dynamic changes before and after treatment.

[RESULTS] Higher baseline levels of TNF-α and IL-2R were associated with poorer progression-free survival outcomes. Dynamic changes of TNF-α and IL-2R before and after treatment were also predictive of survival, with persistently elevated levels associated with worse outcomes. Additionally, clinical characteristics such as liver metastasis and surgical intervention were correlated with cytokine expression levels and survival outcomes.

[CONCLUSIONS] Baseline cytokine levels of TNF-α and IL-2R and their dynamic changes before and after treatment are potential prognostic indicators in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer undergoing first-line standard therapy. Monitoring cytokine profiles may aid in risk stratification and treatment decision-making, ultimately improving patient outcomes.