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From Research to Precision: Singapore Advances the Fight Against Colorectal Cancer

^{PHOTO: Freepik}

Market Info | Health & Lifestyle | Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
 

Date: 1 November 2025   
Region: ASEAN-O      
Country: Singapore          
Sector: Health & Lifestyle
Sub-sector: Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Section: Market Trends
Theme: Biotech

The latest breakthrough from the A*STAR Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB) once again confirms Singapore’s position as a global leader in biomedical research. Led by Professor Nick Barker, an internationally recognised expert in stem cell biology, the research team has identified two key markers — NOX1 and NPY1R — that distinguish specific stem cell populations driving the development of colorectal cancer.

This groundbreaking discovery reshapes the current understanding of tumour formation by demonstrating that colorectal cancers do not arise uniformly, but instead originate from stem cells located in distinct regions of the colon. The researchers have developed the first experimental models reflecting this regional specificity, opening new avenues for targeted drug discovery and for assessing therapies tailored to each tumour type.

Using advanced single‑cell analysis techniques, the IMCB team showed that NOX1 primarily marks stem cells in the caecum (the first section of the large intestine), while NPY1R identifies stem cells in the lower colon. These biological differences help explain why caecal tumours are often diagnosed at later stages, whereas rectal cancers — accounting for around 40% of cases — tend to be detected earlier but remain particularly challenging to treat.

This advance addresses a major gap in current research, as traditional animal models have failed to accurately replicate the regional variations of colorectal cancer. The new models developed by A*STAR therefore provide a unique platform for translational research, enabling the development of personalised treatments based on the cellular origin and anatomical location of the tumour.

Beyond the scientific discovery itself, this study represents a significant step towards precision medicine for colorectal cancer. Researchers are now working to validate these markers in human patients, with the aim of developing individualised screening and treatment strategies capable of targeting high‑risk regions of the colon even before disease onset.

By leveraging Singapore’s scientific and technological excellence, A*STAR IMCB once again demonstrates the country’s ability to translate fundamental research into concrete solutions, reinforcing the city‑state’s role as a key player in global biomedical innovation.

Source : 13/10/2025, BioSpectrum Asia