Role of insulin-like growth factor-1R system in colorectal carcinogenesis

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system is comprised of receptors, ligands (IGF-I and IGF-II), and a family of binding proteins (IGFBPs). It plays an important role in growth and development and in the maintenance of normal homeostasis. We present a review of the current laboratory and epidemiologic evidence that suggests an important role of the IGF system in colorectal carcinogenesis. Due to the complexity of this system, we have focused the review on the role of the IGF-1 receptor and its ligands in colorectal carcinogenesis and the strategies to block this pathway as a potential anti-cancer therapy.