Grant: Operating Grant - PA: Regional Partnership Program - Newfoundland and Labrador

Cancer survival is modified by a variety of factors, including genetic factors. Identification of these genetic factors plays a critical role in selection of appropriate treatment regimen and delivering the most effective medical care to patients. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in Canada and only 65% of the patients survive the first 5 years after the diagnosis. However, majority of the genetic factors influencing survival in colorectal cancer is currently unknown. Generation of new blood and lymph vessels around tumors and tumor metastasis (i.e. spread to other parts of the body) are two main biological processes directly involved in tumor growth and its spread to distant sites in the body. In this study, we hypothesize that the genes involved in these processes are directly related to survival in colorectal cancer patients. Accordingly, here we aim to investigate the genetic correlation of genes involved in generation of new blood and lymph vessels as well as metastasis in relation to survival in colorectal cancer by obtaining genetic profiles in patients, followed by statistical analyses. Once confirmed, the results of this study may be used to select the best possible treatment for each colorectal cancer patient. Therefore, by expediting a personalized medicine approach, results of this study may improve the patient survival in colorectal cancer.