An oncoembryology approach uncovers SoxC-driven regulation of colon development and cancer

Abstract

Reactivated embryonic programs are associated with cancer progression, yet their role and regulatory mechanisms remain poorly understood. In this study, we introduce oncoembryology, an approach that systematically compares embryonic and cancerous tissues to identify shared molecular programs and assess their functional relevance in disease. Applying this strategy to colorectal cancer, we identified SoxC transcription factors (Sox4, Sox11, Sox12) as critical regulators of both embryonic development and tumorigenesis. SoxC transcription factors regulate diverse downstream targets, including Tead2, Mdk, and Klf4, thereby regulating crucial steps of colon development. Abrogating SoxC function in murine models reduced tumor growth and prevented liver metastasis. Concordantly, a SoxC-driven oncoembryonic gene signature correlated with poor survival in colorectal cancer patients, underscoring the therapeutic potential of targeting SoxC-regulated pathways in cancer treatment.