This research article from Nature Cancer investigates the biological mechanisms driving peritoneal metastasis (PM) in colorectal cancer (CRC). By utilizing single-cell RNA sequencing on matched patient samples, the authors constructed a detailed atlas of the tumor microenvironment across primary and metastatic sites. The study identifies that intestinal microbiota dysbiosis triggers inflammation and the recruitment of specific neutrophils, which facilitates the spread of cancer. Furthermore, the findings highlight a mesenchymal transition in both malignant and mesothelial cells that increases the invasiveness of the disease. Ultimately, the research suggests that targeting the microenvironment and mesothelial cell remodeling could lead to new therapeutic strategies for late-stage CRC patients.

References:

• Li Q, Xiao Y, Han L, et al. Microbiome dysbiosis, neutrophil recruitment and mesenchymal transition of mesothelial cells promotes peritoneal metastasis of colorectal cancer[J]. Nature Cancer, 2025, 6(3): 493-510.