KLF4 Epigenetic Modulation

Colorectal cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers worldwide. Colorectal polyps and adenomas represent precursor lesions that may undergo malignant transformation. KLF4 is a transcription factor involved in the regulation of cellular processes and has been described as having context-dependent roles in cancer development. Its activity may be regulated by epigenetic mechanisms, including DNA methylation. The purpose of this prospective observational study is to investigate the epigenetic regulation of KLF4 during the progression from colorectal polyps to adenomas and carcinomas. The primary objective is to assess quantitative KLF4 methylation across different stages of colorectal tissue progression. Secondary objectives are to investigate quantitative and site-specific molecular approaches for the assessment of KLF4 methylation and to assess KLF4 gene expression and its correlation with KLF4 methylation in matched tissue samples. The study is monocentric and will be conducted at AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia. Participants will be adults undergoing routine colonoscopy and diagnosed by the Pathology Division of AUSL-IRCCS Reggio Emilia. Only tissue samples obtained during routine diagnostic procedures and accompanied by signed informed consent will be included. The research procedures will not affect the diagnostic procedures. Colorectal tissue samples will be processed as formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) sections. Genomic DNA and total RNA will be extracted from the samples. DNA methylation will be assessed following bisulfite conversion and specific bisulfite PCR using quantitative PCR approaches. KLF4 gene expression will be assessed by real-time quantitative PCR. Molecular data will be recorded in a study database.