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The microbiome and cancer for clinicians
Sarah L Picardo1, Bryan Coburn2, Aaron R Hansen1
1Division of Medical Oncology and Haematology, Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, 700 University Avenue, Toronto, Ontario, M5G 0A1, Canada.
Critical Reviews in Oncology/Hematology
|June 16, 2019
Summary
The human microbiome influences cancer development and treatment. Understanding microbial roles can improve cancer therapies and prevention strategies by modulating the gut microbiome.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Background:
- The human microbiome is increasingly recognized for its role in cancer.
- Microbial dysbiosis can promote inflammation and alter anti-cancer immunity.
- Microorganisms impact cancer progression and therapeutic responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical relevance of the microbiome in cancer.
- To discuss the impact of microbiota on various cancer types.
- To explore the potential of microbiome modulation in cancer therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on the human microbiome and cancer.
- Discussion of
- omics
- technologies for microbiome analysis.
- Examination of microbiota in tumor tissues and associated fluids (feces, urine).
Main Results:
- Specific cancer microbiota, including colorectal, pancreas, breast, and prostate, are discussed.
- The gut microbiome's indirect effects on cancer are considered.
- The role of the microbiome in immunotherapy and its modulation for improved treatment efficacy is highlighted.
Conclusions:
- The microbiome presents a promising target for cancer prevention and treatment.
- Modulating the microbiome may enhance treatment efficacy and reduce toxicity.
- Further research is needed to fully exploit the therapeutic potential of the microbiome.
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