Due to genes that have the ability to retain water and minimize the accumulation of waste concentrated in the left colon, the development of cancer in this area is often significantly affected.
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide.
In recent years, a research group from Japan has discovered a new factor that helps explain why colorectal cancer often appears in the left side of the colon.
This study not only opens up new directions for diagnosing and treating colorectal cancer but also provides insights into how genes function in the body.
(Illustration: Source Bioscience).
Gene Differences in the Left and Right Colon
Recently, a group of scientists from Osaka University, Japan, published a study on the differences in gene activity between the left and right colon.
According to information from the report published in the journal Molecular Cancer, the researchers revealed that the genes in these two regions function very differently.
One notable finding is that genes related to xenobiotic stimulation (exogenous substances) and antimicrobial peptides are highly expressed in the right colon, whereas genes related to water retention are more concentrated in the left colon.
This indicates a distinct differentiation in the functioning of genes in the two parts of the colon.
The right colon, which contains the majority of the large intestine, tends to process exogenous substances and has the ability to metabolize undigested or unabsorbed materials from the small intestine. Meanwhile, the left colon plays a more important role in retaining water and regulating water content in feces before excretion.
(Source: Denvax).
Why Cancer Concentrates in the Left Colon
This study has shown that genes related to water retention are more concentrated in the left colon, where the reabsorption of water from feces occurs.
However, these molecular mechanisms not only affect water retention but may also influence cancer development. Factors related to water retention may increase the accumulation of waste in the intestines, thus creating conditions for cancer cells to develop. This explains why cases of colorectal cancer often appear more frequently on the left side of the colon.
Additionally, undigested exogenous substances may undergo metabolism in the right colon, where there is robust activity of genes related to this process. This can lead to the formation of toxic compounds, increasing the risk of cancer in the right colon.
However, due to genes that can retain water and minimize waste accumulation being concentrated in the left colon, the development of cancer in this area is often more significantly influenced, leading to left-sided colorectal cancer.
MRI screening for cancer. (Photo: Đức Hạnh/TTXVN).
The Role of the Ileum in Preventing Colorectal Cancer
One noteworthy point in this study suggests that managing the ileum, the final section of the small intestine, may play an important role in the immune system and help prevent colorectal cancer.
The ileum is not only involved in the digestive process but also serves as a crucial area for processing exogenous substances, protecting the body from bacterial invasion and harmful agents.
If the immune system functions well here, it can help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, especially in individuals with genetic predispositions or a history of colorectal cancer.
The Link Between Genetics and Colorectal Cancer Development
Another important factor highlighted in the study is the role of genetics in the development of colorectal cancer.
Scientists have indicated that changes in genes related to digestion and immunity can significantly impact the ability to prevent colorectal cancer.
Discovering the gene differences between the left and right colon has opened up a new opportunity for developing targeted treatment methods for each type of colorectal cancer, thereby increasing treatment effectiveness and reducing mortality rates.
