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Updated: Jan 25, 2026
Testing Cancer Immunotherapeutics in a Humanized Mouse Model Bearing Human Tumors
Published on: December 16, 2022
Salmonella-Based Targeted Cancer Therapy: Updates on A Promising and Innovative Tumor Immunotherapeutic Strategy
Christian Ronquillo Pangilinan1, Che-Hsin Lee2,3
1Department of Biological Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung 80424, Taiwan. chtianbiol@gmail.com.
Abstract:
Presently, cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the world, primarily due to tumor heterogeneity associated with high-grade malignancy. Tumor heterogeneity poses a tremendous challenge, especially with the emergence of resistance not only to chemo- and radiation- therapies, but also to immunotherapy using monoclonal antibodies. The use of Salmonella, as a highly selective and penetrative antitumor agent, has shown convincing results, thus meriting further investigation. In this review, the mechanisms used by Salmonella in combating cancer are carefully explained. In essence, Salmonella overcomes the suppressive nature of the tumor microenvironment and coaxes the activation of tumor-specific immune cells to induce cell death by apoptosis and autophagy. Furthermore, Salmonella treatment suppresses tumor aggressive behavior via inhibition of angiogenesis and delay of metastatic activity. Thus, harnessing the natural potential of Salmonella in eliminating tumors will provide an avenue for the development of a promising micro-based therapeutic agent that could be further enhanced to address a wide range of tumor types.
Insights
Salmonella bacteria show potential as an antitumor agent by overcoming the tumor microenvironment and activating immune cells. This approach offers a promising new avenue for cancer therapy, targeting apoptosis and autophagy for tumor elimination.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, with tumor heterogeneity driving resistance to conventional therapies.
- Resistance to chemotherapy, radiation, and monoclonal antibody immunotherapy presents a significant challenge in cancer treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanisms by which Salmonella combats cancer.
- To explore Salmonella's potential as a novel micro-based therapeutic agent.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on Salmonella's antitumor properties.
- Analysis of Salmonella's interactions with the tumor microenvironment and immune system.
Main Results:
- Salmonella effectively overcomes the suppressive tumor microenvironment.
- Salmonella coaxes activation of tumor-specific immune cells, inducing apoptosis and autophagy.
- Salmonella treatment inhibits angiogenesis and delays metastatic activity, suppressing tumor aggression.
Conclusions:
- Salmonella exhibits significant potential as a selective and penetrative antitumor agent.
- Harnessing Salmonella's natural capabilities can lead to the development of enhanced micro-based cancer therapeutics.
- Further enhancement of Salmonella-based therapies could address a broad spectrum of tumor types.
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