Gut microbiota and colorectal cancer

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology
• Oncology

Background:

• The gut microbiota plays a vital role in maintaining human health and homeostasis.
• Disruptions in the gut microbiota are increasingly linked to gastrointestinal diseases, including colorectal cancer.
• Colorectal cancer is a complex, multi-factorial disease where microbial involvement is becoming evident.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms by which gut microbiota influence colorectal cancer development.
• To explore the clinical implications of microbiota research for colorectal cancer diagnosis and therapy.

Main Methods:

• Identification of candidate pathogens using culture and next-generation sequencing technologies.
• Development of models to understand the spatiotemporal dynamics of carcinogenesis.
• Investigation of key molecules and pathways involved in colorectal cancer development.

Main Results:

• Specific microorganisms have been identified as potential contributors to colorectal cancer.
• Mechanisms and pathways underlying microbiota-driven carcinogenesis are being elucidated.
• Risk factors associated with tumorigenesis can be modulated to reduce susceptibility.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota is a significant factor in colorectal cancer etiology.
• Understanding microbiota-host interactions offers promising avenues for novel diagnostic and therapeutic interventions in colorectal cancer.
• This review highlights the critical role of the gut microbiota in the context of colorectal cancer management.