CXCL8, overexpressed in colorectal cancer, enhances the resistance of colorectal cancer cells to anoikis.

Anoikis is a form of apoptosis which occurs when anchorage-dependent cells either show loss of adhesion or inappropriate adhesion. Only a few cancer cells that detach from the primary site of the tumor acquire the ability to resist anoikis and form metastasis. The mechanism underlying the resistance of colorectal cancer (CRC) cells to anoikis remains unclear.

CCL20 and CXCL8 synergize to promote progression and poor survival outcome in patients with colorectal cancer by collaborative induction of the epithelial-mesenchymal transition.

Liver metastases represent the major cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer (CRC). Recent studies have suggested that the chemotactic responses of tumor cells are necessary for metastatic spread to the liver, and CCL20 and CXCL8 have a strong association with CRC metastasis. The aim of our study was to identify the mechanisms by which CCL20 and CXCL8 synergize to promote metastatic progression and evaluated their potential as prognostic markers for CRC patients.