The role of tissue factor in colorectal cancer

The possible role of tissue factor (TF) in colorectal cancer (CRC) is reviewed. A correlation between TF expression and advanced stages of malignancy, and a correlation between TF expression and overall survival have been suggested in CRC. This is supported by experimental studies indicating that TF plays a key role in growth, invasion and dissemination of tumour cells, and in tumour related angiogenesis as well. In addition, the activation of TF in CRC patients in relation to the surgical trauma, perioperative blood transfusion and development of postoperative bacterial infectious complications are discussed. Finally, future directions for the development of anticancer modalities directed against regulation of TF are considered.