Microbiota in digestive cancers: our new partner?

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Immunology
• Oncology

Background:

• The host and commensal microbiota have an essential symbiotic relationship regulating immunity and inflammation.
• Environmental factors like diet and antibiotics can disrupt this balance, leading to dysbiosis.
• The gut microbiota is increasingly recognized for its role in carcinogenesis and cancer therapy modulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of microbiota in promoting digestive tract carcinogenesis.
• To discuss microbiota's impact on cancer therapeutic efficacy and safety.
• To explore microbiota's influence on cancer-associated complications.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing research on gut microbiota and cancer.
• Analysis of studies investigating microbial influence on carcinogenesis.
• Examination of evidence on microbiota's modulation of cancer treatments, including immune checkpoint inhibitors.

Main Results:

• The gut microbiota contributes to carcinogenesis through pro-inflammatory and immunosuppressive signals.
• Commensal microbes can significantly modulate the effectiveness and safety of cancer therapies.
• Microbiota plays a role in cancer-associated complications.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiota is a critical factor in digestive tract carcinogenesis.
• Microbiota modulation offers potential strategies for enhancing cancer therapy outcomes.
• Further research into the host-microbiota interaction is crucial for cancer management.