Abstract: The invention relates to the identification and selection of novel genomic regions (biomarker) and the identification and selection of novel genomic region combinations which are hypermethylated in subjects with colorectal cancer compared to subjects without colorectal cancer. Nucleic acids which selectively hybridize to the genomic regions and products thereof are also encompassed within the scope of the invention as are compositions and kits containing said nucleic acids and nucleic acids for use in diagnosing prostate cancer. Further encompassed by the invention is the use of nucleic acids which selectively hybridize to one of the genomic regions or products thereof to monitor disease progression or regression in a patient and the efficacy of therapeutic regimens.

Abstract: The invention encompasses the identification and selection of novel miRNAs as biomarkers so as to provide a method for the diagnosis of colorectal cancer. The miRNAs identified are differentially expressed in subjects with colorectal cancer compared to subjects without colorectal cancer. Further, some of the identified miRNAs were found to play a critical role for the progression of colorectal cancer into metastasis and, thus, facilitate a differential diagnosis between tumor and metastasis. Nucleic acids which are capable of specifically detecting the miRNAs identified are also encompassed within the scope of the invention as are sets of said nucleic acids, which arc particularly suited for being used in multiplex RT-PCR or in array techniques. Further encompassed are compositions and kits containing said nucleic acids and nucleic acids for use in diagnosing colorectal cancer.