The concurrent expression of SDF-1 and CXCR4 at sites of early or advanced invasive carcinoma and liver metastases highlighted the clinical significance in terms of SDF-1/CXCR4 signaling, acting as a robust predictor of liver metastasis and profoundly affecting the overall prognosis of CRC patients. The gene discussed is CXCL12; the disease is invasive carcinoma.