The current understanding on the impact of KRAS on colorectal cancer

KRAS (kirsten rat sarcoma viral oncogene) is a member of the RAS family. KRAS mutations are one of most dominant mutations in colorectal cancer (CRC). The impact of KRAS mutations on the prognosis and survival of CRC patients drives many research studies to explore potential therapeutics or target therapy for the KRAS mutant CRC. This review summarizes the current understanding of the pathological consequences of the KRAS mutations in the development of CRC; and the impact of the mutations on the response and the sensitivity to the current front-line chemotherapy. The current therapeutic strategies for treating KRAS mutant CRC, the difficulties and challenges will also be discussed.

Automated summary

KRAS mutations are a major driver in CRC and significantly impact the prognosis and survival of patients. Research studies focus on exploring potential therapeutics for KRAS mutant CRC, as well as understanding the pathological consequences and treatment response of these mutations. Challenges and difficulties in treating KRAS mutant CRC are also discussed.