Three measurable and modifiable enteric microbial biotransformations relevant to cancer prevention and treatment

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Biochemistry
• Oncology

Background:

• The human microbiota plays a critical role in health and disease.
• Specific microbial biotransformations in the gut are linked to cancer development.
• Understanding these processes is crucial for therapeutic interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate key enteric microbial biotransformations relevant to human health and cancer.
• To explore the dual role of gut microbes in producing toxic metabolites and beneficial compounds.
• To connect these microbial activities with gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal cancers.

Main Methods:

• Interdisciplinary scientific evaluation of human microbiota.
• Analysis of specific bacterial biotransformations: bile acid deconjugation, hormone/xenobiotic deconjugation, and butyrate production.
• Review of existing evidence linking these biotransformations to various cancer types.

Main Results:

• Two counterproductive biotransformations identified: production of toxic secondary bile acids (e.g., deoxycholic acid) and retoxification via deglucuronidation.
• One productive biotransformation identified: production of anti-cancer butyrate by enteric bacteria.
• Relevance of these biotransformations to representative gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal cancers discussed.

Conclusions:

• Gut microbial biotransformations significantly impact cancer pathogenesis and treatment.
• Targeting microbial metabolism offers potential therapeutic strategies.
• Dietary adjustments can be counseled based on evidence linking microbial activity to cancer.