AKT1 and colorectal cancer: Furthermore, M-CSF directly augments the invasive capacity of colorectal cancer cells and accelerates metastatic progression by binding to its receptor and activating downstream signaling pathways (e.g., PI3K/AKT).[41] Serum M-CSF levels are significantly elevated in CRC patients compared to healthy individuals, suggesting its potential as a noninvasive prognostic biomarker.[42,43] The findings of this study further elucidate the causal relationships of M-CSF with CRC, providing novel directions for clinical early detection and improved patient prognosis.