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Updated: Feb 11, 2026
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A Method to Assess Bacteriocin Effects on the Gut Microbiota of Mice
Published on: July 25, 2017
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Microbiota effects on cancer: from risks to therapies
Domenica Rea1, Giovanni Coppola1, Giuseppe Palma1
1S.S.D Sperimentazione Animale, Istituto Nazionale Tumori, IRCCS, "Fondazione G. Pascale", Naples, Italy.
Oncotarget
|May 1, 2018
Summary
The gut microbiota influences cancer development and treatment. Understanding this complex relationship may lead to new therapies targeting gut microbes to improve cancer patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Immunology
Background:
- The gut microbiota, comprising trillions of microorganisms, is vital for physiological functions, including immune and inflammatory responses.
- Alterations in gut microbial composition (dysbiosis) are linked to various diseases, including cancer.
- Specific bacteria can promote inflammation and carcinogenesis through signaling pathway deregulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence on the interplay between gut microbiota and cancer.
- To explore the microbiota's role in modulating cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.
- To discuss the potential of targeting the gut microbiome for novel cancer therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific studies on gut microbiota and cancer.
- Analysis of research on microbial influence on carcinogenesis.
- Examination of studies investigating microbiota's impact on cancer treatment efficacy.
Main Results:
- Gut microbiota plays a direct and indirect role in the development of various cancers, including colorectal, liver, and breast cancer.
- Microbial composition can significantly modulate the effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and immunotherapy.
- Certain bacterial strains are implicated in tumor development via inflammatory pathways.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbiota is a critical factor in cancer development and progression.
- Targeting the intestinal microbial community presents a promising therapeutic strategy for improving cancer treatment outcomes and patient quality of life.
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