Tracing Clonal Evolution of Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases in Obesity

Large epidemiological studies have established a strong correlation between obesity and cancer development, particularly colorectal cancer (CRC). Patients with CRC frequently develop histopathologically heterogeneous liver metastases. One subtype, called the replacement pattern, is especially aggressive and associated with worse outcomes. Unfortunately, the mechanisms by which obesity promotes an aggressive metastatic phenotype remain unknown. In this project, we aim to discover how cancer cells adapt to an obese environment and form aggressive traits by tracking cancer cell clonal lineages. These discoveries will provide fundamental insights into obesity-associated cancer aggressiveness and guide the development of tailored therapeutic strategies for obese CRC patients.