BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES: Colorectal cancer (CRC) represents one of the most prevalent forms of cancer, with high mortality rates. The aim of this study was to observe and understand the metabolic changes in CRC through targeted metabolomics. METHODS: Samples collected from 58 CRC patients and 35 healthy individuals have been analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), targeting two classes of metabolites: amino acids and acylcarnitines. RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed 26 significantly modified ( CONCLUSIONS: By implementing a metabolomics approach targeting amino acids and acylcarnitines, several metabolic alterations induced by CRC have been highlighted. Even though these modifications are not specific enough to act as disease markers, they might prove useful for evaluating patient status.