A “conversion‐deterioration‐double mutation” theory for the evolution and progression of colorectal cancer

Abstract

Abstract In this study, based on some clinical phenomena and recently published knowledge, we proposed our “conversion‐deterioration‐double mutation” theory, which provides a possible unifying explanation for the evolutionary process of colorectal cancer cells in the human body. In this theory, we proposed that there is a partial interconversion and a jump conversion relationship among normal colorectal epithelial cells, colorectal cancer cells, stem cells, and cancer stem cells (conversion). This conversion leads to tumor heterogeneity. We also proposed that well‐differentiated cancer cells converted from cancer stem cells have a more aggressive pattern than primary cancer cells (deterioration). The deterioration of primary cancer cells leads to differences in treatment responses and prognosis. Finally, we speculate a double mutation theory, indicating that for metastasis to occur, both mutations of cancer cells and mutations of target organs are needed and should match and meet. All these three points constitute the “conversion‐deterioration‐double mutation” theory.

Keywords

• aberrant differentiation
• cancer evolution
• cancer stem cell
• colorectal cancer
• differentiation
• metastasis