Heterogeneous distribution of Fusobacterium nucleatum in the progression of colorectal cancer.

Fusobacterium nucleatum was strongly present in CRC superficial areas at stage III/IV. The presence of Fn in the deep areas of adjacent normal mucosa also increased. The intratumoral heterogeneity of Fn is important in the use of Fn as a biomarker, as Fn is associated with CRC proliferative capacity.