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Gut microbiome modulates response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma patients

V Gopalakrishnan1,2, C N Spencer2,3, L Nezi3

  • 1Department of Surgical Oncology, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Science (New York, N.Y.)
|November 4, 2017
PubMed

Insights

The gut microbiome influences response to anti-programmed cell death 1 protein (PD-1) immunotherapy in melanoma patients. Responders had higher gut microbiome diversity and specific bacteria, suggesting a link to treatment efficacy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Microbiome Research
  • Immunotherapy

Background:

  • Preclinical models indicate gut microbiome's role in immunotherapy response.
  • Limited characterization exists in human cancer patients undergoing treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the association between oral and gut microbiome composition and response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma patients.
  • To identify specific microbial or functional signatures linked to treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Analysis of oral and gut microbiome in 112 melanoma patients receiving anti-PD-1 therapy.
  • Comparison of microbiome diversity and composition between responders and nonresponders.
  • Metagenomic and immune profiling of fecal samples from a subset of patients.

Main Results:

  • Significant differences in gut microbiome diversity and composition between responders and nonresponders.
  • Higher alpha diversity and Ruminococcaceae family abundance in responding patients.
  • Functional differences in gut bacteria, including anabolic pathways, and enhanced immunity in responders.

Conclusions:

  • The gut microbiome composition is associated with clinical response to anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in melanoma.
  • Specific microbial profiles and functions may predict or influence treatment efficacy.
  • Findings support the potential of microbiome modulation to enhance cancer immunotherapy outcomes.

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