Biomarkers for Early Detection, Prognosis, and Therapeutics of Esophageal Cancers

Abstract

Esophageal cancer (EC) is the deadliest cancer worldwide, with a 92% annual mortality rate per incidence. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) are the two major types of ECs, with EAC having one of the worst prognoses in oncology. Limited screening techniques and a lack of molecular analysis of diseased tissues have led to late-stage presentation and very low survival durations. The five-year survival rate of EC is less than 20%. Thus, early diagnosis of EC may prolong survival and improve clinical outcomes. Cellular and molecular biomarkers are used for diagnosis. At present, esophageal biopsy during upper endoscopy and histopathological analysis is the standard screening modality for both ESCC and EAC. However, this is an invasive method that fails to yield a molecular profile of the diseased compartment. To decrease the invasiveness of the procedures for diagnosis, researchers are proposing non-invasive biomarkers for early diagnosis and point-of-care screening options. Liquid biopsy involves the collection of body fluids (blood, urine, and saliva) non-invasively or with minimal invasiveness. In this review, we have critically discussed various biomarkers and specimen retrieval techniques for ESCC and EAC.

Rab8a serves as a valuable biomarker of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma

“…And they have different geographic patterns, causes and prognosis [12]. Patients with cancers have poor prognosis mostly because of the late-stage at diagnosis [13,14]. So it is very important to nd the valuable diagnostic marker for combating cancers.…”

A comprehensive pan-cancer analysis and prediction model revealed that FAM189A2 is an immune-related gene and a prognostic biomarker for esophageal adenocarcinoma

“…A study conducted in China over a 24-year period revealed that ESCC constituted around 95% of esophageal cancer cases in the country, whereas the incidence of EAC was relatively low. However, due to rapid economic growth and the adoption of more Westernized diets and lifestyles, the occurrence of EAC has been increasing annually in both urban and rural areas of China (Rai et al, 2023;Luo et al, 2021;Liang et al, 2017). This trend necessitates the attention of researchers in cancer prevention and treatment.…”

“…China has the highest number of patients with esophageal cancer globally, with ESCC being the predominant subtype, responsible for over 90% of deaths, resulting in 193,000 annual fatalities nationwide (Lin et al, 2017). ESCC is the primary histological type of esophageal cancer, accounting for approximately 90% of all cases, and it is highly prevalent in Asia, Africa, and South America (Rai et al, 2023). The abnormal growth of the esophageal squamous epithelium serves as a signi cant precancerous lesion.…”

Novel milestones for early esophageal carcinoma: From bench to bed

“…Esophageal endoscopic biopsy combined with histological analysis is widely regarded as the most reliable method for early detection and diagnosis. Advanced endoscopic imaging techniques, such as chromoendoscopy, virtual chromoendoscopy, and magnifying endoscopy, can significantly enhance the sensitivity of detecting early-stage cancer[ 14 ]. Minimally invasive endoscope-guided treatment offers effective management for the majority of ESCCs and precancerous lesions, leading to a 90% chance of survival for up to 5 years[ 15 ].…”