Intestinal Microbiota: A Novel Target to Improve Anti-Tumor Treatment?

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Microbiology
• Immunology

Background:

• Emerging evidence highlights the gut microbiota's crucial role in modulating host responses to various anti-cancer treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiotherapy.
• The intestinal microbiome can influence resistance to cancer therapies through direct interactions or indirect immunomodulation, affecting diverse malignancies beyond colorectal cancer.
• Gut microbiota composition impacts not only the efficacy of anti-cancer treatments but also the severity of treatment-induced side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the multifaceted role of the gut microbiome in the efficacy and side effects of diverse anti-cancer therapies.
• To elucidate the underlying mechanisms by which the gut microbiota influences anti-cancer treatment outcomes.
• To explore novel microbiota-targeting strategies as potential adjuvant therapies for improving cancer treatment efficiency.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of preclinical and clinical studies.
• Analysis of mechanisms involving direct microbial interaction with treatments and host immunomodulation.
• Evaluation of microbiota-modulating interventions such as probiotics, prebiotics, antibiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and physical activity.

Main Results:

• The gut microbiome plays a significant role in both the efficacy and toxicity of multiple anti-cancer treatments.
• Mechanisms include direct interference with drug action and modulation of the host immune system.
• Specific interventions targeting the gut microbiota show promise for enhancing therapeutic responses.

Conclusions:

• The gut microbiome is a critical factor in cancer treatment success and patient tolerance.
• Modulating the gut microbiota presents a promising avenue for developing novel adjuvant therapies to improve anti-cancer treatment outcomes.
• Future research should focus on optimizing microbiota-based strategies for personalized cancer care.