A Novel Lactic Acid Bacteria Mixture: Macrophage-Targeted Prophylactic Intervention in Colorectal Cancer Management

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Microbiology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a common malignancy linked to chronic inflammation and gut dysbiosis.
• Probiotics, known for their immunomodulatory and microbiota-balancing effects, are being explored for CRC prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the immunomodulatory effects of specific lactobacilli on macrophage-like cells in vitro.
• To assess the anti-tumorigenic potential of pooled probiotics in a chemically induced CRC rat model.

Main Methods:

• In vitro: Macrophages (M1/M2) co-cultured with lactobacilli to measure cytokine release (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18, IL-23) and phagocytosis.
• In vivo: Wistar rats with chemically induced CRC received oral probiotics; tumor parameters, colon length, and cytokine levels (TNF-α, IL-1β, IL-18) in tumors were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Lactobacilli demonstrated both pro- and anti-inflammatory properties in vitro.
• Oral probiotic administration significantly reduced tumor multiplicity, volume, and number in rats.
• Probiotics restored colon length and increased IL-18 production within tumor tissues.

Conclusions:

• Lactobacilli possess immunomodulatory effects on macrophage subsets.
• Probiotics offer a protective effect against chemically induced colorectal cancer, highlighting their therapeutic potential.