On the other hand, genes relevant for pyruvate metabolism, such as the phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase genes PCK1 and 2, main control points for the regulation of gluconeogenesis, as well as SMAD6, involved in TGFβ signaling, were specifically up-regulated in adipocytes from lean CRC patients. Here, TGFB1 is linked to colorectal carcinoma.