Research Progress on the Role of the Farnesoid X Receptor in Colorectal Cancer
Yu Hong, Huang Guodong, Li Li, Lei Zhang and Lu Hongda
Colorectal cancer is the third most common malignant tumor worldwide, ranking second in cancerrelated deaths, with poor prognosis for advanced-stage patients. Farnesoid X receptor is a kind of
nuclear receptor for bile acids, recent studies suggest that the farnesoid X receptor can regulate the
proliferation, differentiation, invasion, and metastasis of colorectal cancer cells, thereby inhibiting the
occurrence and development of colorectal cancer. The main mechanisms of action include 1) cell cycle
blockade, 2) regulation of apoptosis and autophagy, 3) influence on energy metabolism, and 4) shaping
the intestinal microenvironment. These mechanisms involve multiple signaling pathways such as Wnt/βcatenin, EGFR/ERK, JAK2/STAT3, etc. The anticancer effects of the farnesoid X receptor indicate its
potential as a therapeutic target of colorectal cancer. Its agonists not only independently exert antitumor effects but also synergistically enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and immunotherapy, offering
the possibility of improving the survival and prognosis of colorectal cancer.
