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Microbial networking in cancer: when two toxins collide
Sarah Tomkovich1, Christian Jobin2,3,4
1Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
British Journal of Cancer
|May 19, 2018
Summary
Two bacteria, Bacteroides fragilis and pks+ Escherichia coli, promote colon cancer. They form biofilms on tissue from patients with familial adenomatous polyposis, working together to drive tumor growth.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Oncology
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Enterotoxigenic bacteria, specifically Bacteroides fragilis and pks+ Escherichia coli, are linked to sporadic colorectal cancer.
- These bacteria have been identified in biofilms on tissue from patients diagnosed with familial adenomatous polyposis.
Discussion:
- The study highlights the synergistic role of Bacteroides fragilis and pks+ Escherichia coli in promoting colon cancer development.
- The presence of these bacteria in biofilms suggests a potential mechanism for their cooperative oncogenic activity.
Key Insights:
- Bacteroides fragilis and pks+ Escherichia coli coexist in biofilms on tissue from familial adenomatous polyposis patients.
- These bacteria and their toxins exhibit synergistic effects in promoting colon cancer in preclinical models.
Outlook:
- Further research into the synergistic mechanisms of these bacteria could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for colorectal cancer.
- Understanding the role of biofilms in hosting oncogenic bacteria may offer new avenues for cancer prevention and treatment.
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