LIF and neoplasm: Circulating levels of LIF were significantly elevated in patients who went on to have a subsequent poor pathological response following neo-adjuvant treatment (neoCT or neoCRT), with a Mandard tumour regression grade (TRG) of 3-5, compared to patients who had a subsequent good pathological response to neo-adjuvant treatment, with a TRG of 1-2 (p=0.037) (Figure 3A).