A simple blood test may offer a modern way to predict which patients with colorectal cancer are at highest risk of recurrence and death, according to research published February 1, 2026. The test analyzes blood-based DNA markers, known as protein epiScores, to assess a patient’s prognosis. This advancement in colorectal cancer survival prediction could help doctors tailor treatment plans and improve outcomes for those facing this challenging diagnosis.
Colorectal cancer remains a significant public health concern, ranking as the third most diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths, according to a study published in Clin Epigenetics. Currently, doctors rely on staging—determining the extent of the cancer’s spread—to guide treatment decisions. Yet, staging doesn’t always accurately predict how a patient will respond to therapy or their likelihood of recurrence. This is where protein epiScores show promise.
The research, led by Alicia R. Richards, PhD, of the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute in Tampa, Florida, and colleagues, examined the relationship between DNA methylation—a process that alters gene expression—in blood samples and levels of proteins in the plasma. They found that these protein epiScores could effectively predict survival rates in colorectal cancer patients. The study involved a comprehensive analysis of data from multiple cohorts, strengthening the validity of the findings.
How Protein EpiScores Operate
Protein epiScores aren’t looking for the cancer itself, but rather for changes in the way genes are expressed. DNA methylation is an epigenetic modification, meaning it alters gene activity without changing the underlying DNA sequence. These changes can be detected in circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) found in the bloodstream. By analyzing methylation patterns, researchers can predict the levels of specific proteins that are associated with cancer progression and survival. The study, detailed in Clin Epigenetics, demonstrates a correlation between these epiScores and patient outcomes.
“This is a non-invasive way to obtain a sense of the tumor’s biology and how aggressive it might be,” explains Dr. Richards in a Newswise press release. “It’s not a replacement for traditional staging, but it’s an additional piece of information that could help us make more informed decisions about treatment.”
Implications for Patient Care
The potential benefits of incorporating protein epiScores into clinical practice are substantial. For patients with high-risk scores, doctors might consider more aggressive treatment strategies, such as chemotherapy or immunotherapy, or more frequent monitoring for recurrence. Conversely, patients with low-risk scores might be spared unnecessary treatments and their associated side effects. This personalized approach to cancer care could significantly improve both survival rates and quality of life.
The research team included collaborators from several institutions, including the University of South Florida, Heidelberg University Hospital in Germany, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center, the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, and Washington University School of Medicine. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of multidisciplinary research in tackling complex diseases like colorectal cancer.
The Study Details
The study, published February 1, 2026, involved analyzing blood samples from a large cohort of colorectal cancer patients. Researchers used advanced genomic techniques to assess DNA methylation patterns and correlate them with protein levels in the plasma. Statistical models were then developed to create the protein epiScores, which were validated in independent patient cohorts. The findings consistently showed that higher epiScores were associated with poorer survival outcomes.
Researchers identified Alicia R. Richards (H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute), Maria F. Gomez (H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute), Bianca I. Dowling (University of South Florida), Esther Jean-Baptiste (H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute), Biljana Gigic (Heidelberg University Hospital), Jane C. Figueiredo (Cedars-Sinai Medical Center), Christopher I. Li (Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center), David Shibata (University of Tennessee Health Science Center), Adetunji T. Toriola (Washington University School of Medicine), and Doratha A. Byrd (H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute) as key contributors to the research.
What’s Next?
While the findings are promising, further research is needed to validate these results in larger and more diverse patient populations. Clinical trials are planned to assess the impact of using protein epiScores to guide treatment decisions. Researchers are also exploring whether this approach can be applied to other types of cancer. The ultimate goal is to develop a reliable and accessible blood test that can help doctors personalize cancer care and improve outcomes for all patients. The next steps involve refining the epiScore algorithm and establishing standardized protocols for clinical implementation.
This research represents a significant step forward in our understanding of colorectal cancer and offers hope for more effective and personalized treatment strategies. If you have concerns about colorectal cancer, please consult with your healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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