Diagnostics (Apr 2021)

Imbalance of Mg Homeostasis as a Potential Biomarker in Colon Cancer

  • Davide Schiroli,
  • Chiara Marraccini,
  • Eleonora Zanetti,
  • Moira Ragazzi,
  • Alessandra Gianoncelli,
  • Eleonora Quartieri,
  • Elisa Gasparini,
  • Stefano Iotti,
  • Roberto Baricchi,
  • Lucia Merolle

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics11040727
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 4
p. 727

Abstract

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Background: Increasing evidences support a correlation between magnesium (Mg) homeostasis and colorectal cancer (CRC). Nevertheless, the role of Mg and its transporters as diagnostic markers in CRC is still a matter of debate. In this study we combined X-ray Fluorescence Microscopy and databases information to investigate the possible correlation between Mg imbalance and CRC. Methods: CRC tissue samples and their non-tumoural counterpart from four patients were collected and analysed for total Mg level and distribution by X-Ray Fluorescence Microscopy. We also reviewed the scientific literature and the main tissue expression databases to collect data on Mg transporters expression in CRC. Results: We found a significantly higher content of total Mg in CRC samples when compared to non-tumoural tissues. Mg distribution was also impaired in CRC. Conversely, we evidenced an uncertain correlation between Mg transporters expression and colon malignancies. Discussion: Although further studies are necessary to determine the correlation between different cancer types and stages, this is the first report proposing the measurement of Mg tissue localisation as a marker in CRC. This study represents thus a proof-of-concept that paves the way for the design of a larger prospective investigation of Mg in CRC.

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