CEA was initially identified as a tumor marker for colorectal cancer. Its discovery marked a significant milestone in cancer research, as it provided a potential biomarker for the detection and monitoring of certain types of cancer . The protein is produced in large amounts by some tumors, making it useful for monitoring cancer treatment .
CEA belongs to a larger family of 12 carcinoembryonic antigen-related cell adhesion molecules (CEACAMs). These molecules have diverse functions in cell adhesion, intracellular and intercellular signaling, and during complex biological processes such as cancer progression, inflammation, angiogenesis, and metastasis . CEACAM1, CEACAM5, and CEACAM6 are now considered valid clinical biomarkers and promising therapeutic targets in various cancers, including melanoma, lung, colorectal, and pancreatic cancers .
Recombinant CEA is produced using recombinant DNA technology, which involves inserting the CEA gene into a suitable expression system, such as bacteria or mammalian cells, to produce the protein in large quantities. This recombinant form of CEA is used in various research and clinical applications, including the development of vaccines and immunotherapies .
CEA is widely used as a biomarker in clinical settings to monitor the progression and treatment of certain cancers. Elevated levels of CEA in the blood can indicate the presence of cancer or a recurrence of the disease after treatment. It is particularly useful in monitoring colorectal cancer, but it can also be elevated in other cancers, such as breast, lung, and pancreatic cancers .
Ongoing research aims to better understand the role of CEA and its related molecules in cancer and other diseases. The development of new molecular and biochemical tools, as well as mouse models, has enabled significant advancements in the study of the CEACAM network biology . These advancements may lead to new monitoring and targeting opportunities, improving the diagnosis and treatment of various cancers.