Targeting INF2 with DiosMetin 7-O-β-D-Glucuronide: a new stratagem for colorectal cancer therapy.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most prevalent malignancy in the gastrointestinal tract and the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Despite the identification of numerous biomarkers, their non-specific distribution across different cell types complicates the development of targeted therapies. Therefore, this study aims to identify specific biomarkers for CRC and utilize them for the development of targeted therapies. METHODS: Single-cell RNA sequencing and machine learning were used to analyze INF2 localization in CRC tissues and its prognostic value. Immunohistochemistry, cell biology assays, and computational docking were employed to assess INF2's clinical significance and identify inhibitors. RESULTS: INF2 was identified as a key prognostic marker in CRC, with elevated expression in advanced-stage tissues. Knockdown of INF2 inhibited CRC cell proliferation and mobility. DiosMetin 7-O-β-D-Glucuronide, a natural compound, selectively inhibited INF2-high CRC cells with minimal toxicity to normal cells. CONCLUSION: INF2 is a CRC-specific biomarker associated with poor prognosis. DiosMetin 7-O-β-D-Glucuronide, as an INF2 inhibitor, shows promise as a targeted therapeutic agent for CRC treatment.