RUNX3 and colorectal carcinoma: In the present study, using a qPCR-based technique, a group of five HM genes with the highest percentage of methylation were identified in CRC patients, RUNX3, PCDH10, SFRP5, IGF2 and Hnf1b. These genes were observed to have the greatest potential of gene expression repression and, therefore, were the most promising biomarkers for the diagnosis of CRC.