Advancing early detection of colorectal cancer with novel blood-based protein biomarkers

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Europe and the U.S.—yet when detected early, the 5-year survival rate jumps to 91%. While colonoscopy remains the gold standard for screening, its invasiveness limits adherence. Less invasive stool- and blood-based tests exist, but more accurate approaches are urgently needed, especially for early-stage CRC and advanced adenomas (AA).

As part of the Horizon-funded DIOPTRA project (Mission Cancer), researchers explored a novel, blood-based protein biomarker strategy for early detection. In a prospective study, blood samples from individuals undergoing colonoscopy were analyzed using Olink’s high-plex proteomics platform, measuring over 5,400 proteins.

Through bioinformatics and machine learning, the team identified a protein biomarker signature that effectively distinguishes between healthy individuals, non-advanced adenomas (NAA), AA, and CRC. Early validation has demonstrated >90% sensitivity and specificity, underscoring the potential of this approach as a non-invasive, routine screening tool for detecting CRC and precancerous lesions at earlier, more treatable stages.

Join this 30-minute session to: 

• Discover how NGS-based proteomics can identify novel blood-based biomarkers for early CRC and AA detection, paving the way for more accurate cancer screening and better patient outcomes.
• Learn how Olink Explore and Explore HT enable large-scale, sensitive protein measurements that accelerate biomarker discovery in oncology
• Explore the potential of a non-invasive, routine blood test to transform cancer screening and improve adherence.

Organised in collaboration with the Olink Certified Service Provider