DES and rectal cancer: Furthermore, Desmin gene mutations would lead to certain forms of muscular dystrophies, with or without cardiomyopathies.[7] Studies have shown that the expression of Desmin is significantly increased in CRC and adenomas comparing with normal colonic tissues, indicating a potential new colon and rectal cancer serum marker.[8] A high expression of Desmin in colon cancer patients is correlated with a decreased survival and poor prognosis, as it disrupts the tumor suppressive function of p53.